CONFORMED WITHOUT EXHIBITS
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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
[X] Annual report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934
[Fee Required] for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997, or
[ ] Transition report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934
[No Fee Required] for the transition period from ____ to ____
Commission file number 0-13865
ICC TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
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(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
DELAWARE 23-2368845
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(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization) Identification Number)
330 S. Warminster Road
Hatboro, Pennsylvania 19040
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(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (215) 682-6600
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Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: None
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Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
Common Stock, $.01 par value
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(Title of Class)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required
to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter periods that the registrant
was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing
requirements for the past 90 days.
Yes X No
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Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405
of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the
best of the registrant's knowledge, in the definitive proxy or information
statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any
amendment to this Form 10-K. [ ]
The aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates of the
registrant, as of March 25, 1998 was $43,366,986.
As of March 25, 1998, 21,520,000 shares of common stock were outstanding.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
The Company's Definitive Proxy Statement for its 1998 Annual Meeting to be filed
within 120 days of the Company's year end December 31, 1997 Form 10-K is
incorporated by reference in Part III.
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PART I
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ITEM 1. BUSINESS
INTRODUCTION
ICC Technologies, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the "Company" or "ICC"), is
engaged in the design, manufacture and marketing of innovative climate control
systems to address indoor air quality, energy and environmental concerns and
regulations currently affecting the air conditioning market. Prior to February
27, 1998, the Company had been engaged in such business through Engelhard/ICC
("E/ICC" or "the Partnership"), a general partnership formed in February 1994,
in which the Company, along with Engelhard Corporation ("Engelhard"), each
owned, indirectly, a 50% general partnership interest.
On February 27, 1998, pursuant to a Master Agreement dated as of November 17,
1997 by and among the Company, Engelhard and E/ICC, the parties effectuated a
restructuring of E/ICC by providing in substance for: (a) the division of E/ICC
into two separate operating limited partnerships, one to manufacture and market
the complete climate control systems ("Fresh Air Solutions, "L.P. or "Fresh Air
Solutions"), and the other to manufacture and market products manufactured from
honeycomb substrate and the desiccant-coated and heat-exchange wheel-shaped
rotors that are components of the climate control systems ("Engelhard HexCore,
L.P." or "Engelhard HexCore"); and (b) the exchange by ICC and Engelhard of
certain of their respective interests in each partnership and the payment by
Engelhard to ICC of approximately $18.6 million, such that after the exchanges:
(i) ICC now owns 90% of Fresh Air Solutions, L.P. and 20% of Engelhard HexCore,
L.P.; and (ii) Engelhard now owns 80% of Engelhard HexCore, L.P. and 10% of
Fresh Air Solutions, L.P. (the "Restructuring"). The Master Agreement and
transactions contemplated thereby were approved by the stockholders of ICC at a
Special Meeting of Stockholders held on February 23, 1998.
Fresh Air Solutions' climate control systems are designed to address indoor air
quality, energy and environmental concerns and regulations currently affecting
the air conditioning market. Fresh Air Solutions currently markets its systems
to certain targeted applications within the commercial air conditioning market
primarily in North America and Asia-Pacific. Fresh Air Solutions' climate
control systems incorporate desiccant technology initially developed by the
Company, Engelhard HexCore's licensed honeycomb rotor technology and Engelhard's
patented titanium silicate desiccant, ETS(TM).
The Company believes that the Fresh Air Solutions' climate control systems
create a more comfortable environment, more effectively control humidity,
improve indoor air quality, address certain environmental concerns and provide
customers a choice from a variety of energy sources such as natural gas, steam,
waste heat or electricity.
MARKET OVERVIEW
The Company estimates that the worldwide annual market for residential and
commercial air conditioning systems was approximately $32 billion in 1997. Fresh
Air Solutions has specifically targeted certain applications within the
commercial air conditioning market in North America and Asia-Pacific. The
Company estimates that the worldwide commercial air conditioning market was $10
billion in 1997. The Company expects Fresh Air Solutions desiccant-based systems
to compete in a broader segment of this market as awareness and acceptance of
Fresh Air Solutions' systems grow and their initial cost declines.
The Company estimates that the Asian-Pacific commercial air conditioning market
was approximately $4 billion in 1997. Many of the Asian-Pacific countries are
located in humid climates where Fresh Air Solutions climate control systems are
most effective. The Asian-Pacific market is dominated by Japan, which
predominantly utilizes natural gas powered air conditioning systems. As in
Japan, many countries throughout Asia-Pacific are experiencing shortages of
electricity, creating a demand for air conditioning systems powered by
alternative
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energy sources. Many of the Asian-Pacific economies have been experiencing lower
economic growth than had been previously enjoyed resulting in declines in many
of the Asian-Pacific currencies in comparison to the US dollar. Continued
weakness in Asian-Pacific currencies could adversely impact Asian-Pacific market
growth and Fresh Air Solutions' sales and marketing activities.
The Company estimates that the North American commercial air conditioning market
was approximately $3 billion in 1997. Air conditioning systems in North America
predominately utilize electric powered systems. The Fresh Air Solutions'
strategy is to target commercial applications in which humidity control, indoor
air quality and energy consumption are important health issues or a significant
cost of business. Indoor air quality has become an important issue currently
affecting the air conditioning industry in the United States. Fungal and
microbial growth in damp ductwork and the build-up of pollutants from furniture,
appliances and other equipment in recirculated air can lead to unhealthy indoor
environments sometimes identified as 'Sick Building Syndrome.' To combat this
problem, the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
Engineers ("ASHRAE") issued standards to increase the amount of fresh air
brought into buildings by as much as 200 to 300% as compared to prior
ventilation standards. These standards have been incorporated into many state
and local building codes throughout the United States for new construction. New
revised standards are under consideration to limit space relative humidity to
less than sixty percent. See "Business -- Government Regulations."
The Company's estimates of market size was derived from a market study completed
for the Company in December 1995.
International accords which address various energy and environmental concerns
are also having an impact on air conditioning markets throughout the world. As a
result, the Company believes there is an increased demand for new equipment to
replace CFC-based air conditioning equipment. See "Business -- Government
Regulations."
DESICCANT TECHNOLOGY
Comfort is directly affected by both temperature and humidity. People are
generally more comfortable in less humid environments. Lower humidity allows
water to evaporate from the skin, causing a cooling effect. Conventional air
conditioning systems reduce indoor temperature and humidity by cooling air. In
conventional air conditioning, humidity control is principally a by-product of
the cooling process when moisture condenses on the cooling coil. In conditions
where significant humidity reduction is desired, conventional air conditioning
systems must often cool indoor air below desired levels, thereby consuming
additional energy. Desiccant systems, however, remove humidity independently of
cooling without overcooling the air, thereby generally consuming less energy
than conventional air conditioning.
Desiccant technology has been in existence for more than 50 years. A desiccant
is a generic term for any drying agent that removes moisture from the air. Prior
desiccant-based equipment met limited success and market acceptance outside of
industrial drying applications because of less effective desiccants and rotors,
higher maintenance costs, inefficient designs, and high initial and operating
costs. The Company believes that the Fresh Air Solution's climate control system
design, which incorporates Engelhard's ETS(TM) desiccant and a small cell,
honeycomb substrate material used in the manufacture of the Engelhard HexCore's
desiccant and heat exchange rotors, has principally overcome these problems and
in many applications is an effective and environmentally safer supplement or
alternative to conventional air conditioning systems. There can be no assurance
that Fresh Air Solutions will be able to create sufficient market acceptance of
its climate control systems.
ETS(TM) is a white crystalline powder, classified as a molecular sieve.
Molecular sieves are capable of differentiating chemicals on a
molecule-by-molecule basis and, therefore, can be designed to remove single
compounds, such as water, from liquids and gases. ETS(TM) is unique in its
capabilities to release moisture at lower regeneration temperatures, thereby
requiring less energy than other desiccants. The heat necessary to remove the
moisture can be provided by almost any source of heat capable of generating
temperatures of at least 140(Degree)F. As a result, Fresh Air Solutions' systems
can use a wider variety of heat sources, including waste heat, than other
desiccant-based systems.
3
Fresh Air Solutions' systems utilize two wheel-shaped rotors with honeycomb
passages. The honeycomb substrate material used to make the rotors is
manufactured by Engelhard HexCore through a licensed proprietary process for
manufacturing lightweight structural honeycomb core. This substrate material
offers lighter weight, superior airflow and more efficient heat and moisture
transfer than the corrugated rotors used by Engelhard HexCore's competitors. The
Company believes that the Engelhard HexCore's honeycomb rotors are unique and
would be difficult and costly for competitors to duplicate.
The first rotor in the Fresh Air Solution's desiccant two rotor systems is
coated with ETS(TM) and the second serves as a heat exchange rotor. Recirculated
air (air from the building), or up to 100% fresh air, is first dehumidified by
passing it through a slowly rotating rotor treated with ETS(TM) that adsorbs
airborne moisture, and thereby raises the temperature in proportion to the
reduction in humidity. As the desiccant rotor rotates to the other side of the
unit, heated air is blown through the desiccant rotor which releases the
moisture from the ETS(TM), regenerating the desiccant rotor for further
dehumidification. The warm, dehumidified air is next cooled by passing it
through a similar rotor which has not been coated with ETS(TM). Depending upon
climatic conditions, the temperature of the process air is generally reduced to
a temperature approximately 10% lower than outside air temperature. The heat
exchange rotor is cooled by an evaporative cooler on the other side of the unit.
The moderate temperature, dry air can be cooled further by partially
rehumidifying the air through an evaporative cooler, which does not use any
refrigerants, or a smaller cooling coil than would be required by a conventional
air conditioning system. The process air is then delivered to the building by
the normal system of fans and ducts.
The Company believes that Fresh Air Solution's systems provide the following
features and benefits:
o More Effective Control of Humidity -- Fresh Air Solution's systems are
more effective at controlling humidity than conventional,
refrigerant-based air conditioning systems which control humidity
primarily as a by-product of the cooling process when moisture
condenses on the cooling coil. As a result, in conditions where
significant humidity reduction is desired, conventional air
conditioning systems must often cool air below desired temperature
levels. Drier air is generally more comfortable for a building's
occupants and is more efficient to cool. Humidity control is also
important in a variety of commercial applications, such as
supermarkets, and in certain manufacturing processes.
o Improved Indoor Air Quality -- Ventilation standards recommended by
ASHRAE and incorporated into many state and local building codes
throughout the country for new building construction now require that
as much as 200 - 300% more fresh air be circulated into buildings in
certain circumstances compared to prior ventilation standards to reduce
indoor air pollutants associated with "Sick Building Syndrome." Fresh
Air Solution's systems are designed to process the humidity introduced
by increased ventilation and, accordingly, enable a building to meet or
exceed these standards. In addition, lower humidity levels reduce
airborne bacteria, mold, mildew and fungi, another major source of
indoor air quality problems.
o Cost Effective -- Less humid air requires less energy to cool than more
humid air. As a supplement to conventional air conditioning, by first
dehumidifying the air, Fresh Air Solutions systems are designed to
improve the effectiveness of existing conventional air conditioning and
thereby result in downsizing of total air conditioning requirements.
o Versatile and Reliable - Fresh Air Solution's systems are available in
natural gas, electric, steam or waste heat models and in several sizes
which process from 2,000 to 13,000 cubic feet of air per minute. The
ability to choose from a variety of energy sources allows customers to
select the most cost-effective energy source in their area at the time
of purchase. The systems are also expected to require less maintenance
than conventional equipment because of simplicity of design and fewer
moving parts.
o Environmentally Safer -- Conventional air conditioning systems utilize
refrigerants, such as CFCs, HCFCs and HFCs, which damage stratospheric
ozone or contribute to global warming. Because the desiccant cooling
systems dehumidify the air before it is cooled by a post-cooling option
in the system
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or in conjunction with a conventional air conditioning system, the
cooling coil and compressor included generally are smaller, than would
otherwise be required in a conventional air conditioning system,
thereby utilizing less refrigerant.
o Year-round Performance -- Fresh Air Solution's systems provide
year-round indoor climate control. In hot, humid weather they supply
cool, dry air. In cool, "clammy" weather they supply warm, dry air. In
cold weather the systems can supply heat.
In 1998, Fresh Air Solutions expanded its product line in response to customer
demands to include an enthalpy wheel energy recovery systems. The enthalpy wheel
energy recovery system is a single wheel lightly coated with desiccant material
which provides for limited cooling and passive dehumidification. The enthalpy
wheel energy recovery system operates as a supplement to conventional air
conditioning systems. The enthalpy wheel energy recovery system provides for
limited cooling and dehumidification at a relatively low cost. The enthalpy
wheel will in certain circumstances improve the effectiveness of existing
conventional air conditioning and thereby allow for the downsizing of the total
air conditioning requirements. The performance of the enthalpy wheel energy
recovery system is less than that of the two wheel active humidity control
system. In addition, Fresh Air Solutions also introduced a single wheel
desiccant system which provides for dehumidification control only.
BUSINESS STRATEGY
The Fresh Air Solutions strategy is to target specific applications within the
commercial air conditioning market in which humidity control, indoor air quality
and energy consumption are important health issues or a significant cost of
business. Although the Partnership markets its systems primarily as a supplement
to conventional air conditioning systems, the Company believes that as market
awareness and acceptance grows and the initial price of its systems declines,
the Partnership will market its climate control systems as a replacement for
conventional air conditioning systems in a broader segment of commercial
applications. Fresh Air Solutions markets its systems primarily as a supplement
to conventional air conditioning systems. Fresh Air Solutions is pursuing the
following strategies:
o Reduction of Operating and Manufacturing Costs - Fresh Air Solutions
reduced the cost of its systems in 1997 and expects to further reduce
manufacturing and material costs through production innovations and
efficiencies and materials improvement and substitutes. Further
operating cost savings are expected through reduction in operating
department work force and increased constraints on expenditures. In
addition, the Company believes enhanced product performance and reduced
system costs can be obtained through the development or acquisition of
certain new low cost components.
o Acquisition of an Air Conditioning Manufacturer -- The Company is
continuing to seek and evaluate acquisition opportunities to acquire an
air conditioning manufacturer which the Company believes would enhance
Fresh Air Solutions' overall strategy of developing market awareness of
its products, increasing production and distribution capabilities and
offering its customers a more complete solution to their climate
control needs. Currently, there are no binding commitments or
agreements to acquire an air conditioning manufacturer and there can be
no assurance that any agreements will be executed or any acquisition
will be consummated.
o Target Specific Commercial Applications - Fresh Air Solutions strategy
is to market its climate control systems to users in which humidity
control, indoor air quality and energy consumption are important
considerations. The primary applications targeted by Fresh Air
Solutions and the benefits that its systems can provide include:
Segment Benefits
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Supermarkets Reduces frost and condensation on refrigerated goods, which improves
appearance and extends shelf life as a result of fewer defrost cycles. Also,
improves comfort in refrigerated aisles and increases efficiency of
refrigerated cases.
Schools Reduces bacteria and fungus in the building and its heating, ventilation
and air conditioning ("HVAC") system.
5
Segment Benefits
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Theaters Improves comfort and indoor air quality.
Restaurants Provides building pressurization to compensate for concentration of kitchen
exhaust and reduces cooking odors and improves comfort.
Health Care Reduces bacteria and fungus in the building and its HVAC system. Allows for
warmer temperatures at lower humidity for greater comfort of patients, doctors
and other health care workers.
Hotels Reduces mold and mildew and improves comfort.
Manufacturing Reduces concentration of volatile organic compounds generated in the manufacturing
process and improves comfort for workers. May be particularly important to
humidity-sensitive manufacturing processes.
o Establish Strategic Relationships with Domestic and International
Manufacturers and Distributors of Air Conditioning Equipment - Fresh
Air Solutions plans to enter into additional licenses, marketing
relationships or joint venture arrangements. Fresh Air Solutions
believes that the reputation and resources of its licensees and joint
venture partners can help gain market acceptance and awareness for its
products.
The Company is continuing to seek and evaluate acquisition opportunities related
or unrelated to desiccant technology, that would help broaden its product
offerings or permit ICC to enter new areas of business and that demonstrate
capabilities of enhancing shareholder value. Presently, although the Company is
exploring the possibility of pursuing other ventures, to date it has not entered
into any binding agreement to do so. ICC may enter any other business it deems
appropriate, whether or not related to Fresh Air Solutions' business, except
that in connection with the terms of the Restructuring it may not be a reseller
of wheel-shaped rotors acquired from Engelhard HexCore other than as a component
in the production and sale of climate control systems.
PRODUCTS
Fresh Air Solutions currently manufactures and sells several types of
desiccant-based climate control systems. The two wheel systems, "Desert
Cool(TM)" and "Desert Breeze(TM)" differ based upon function and energy source;
in addition, in 1998 Fresh Air Solutions introduced single wheel systems. Fresh
Air Solutions' systems are being marketed currently as energy efficient
supplements to enhance the performance of, or partially replace, existing
conventional air conditioning systems. Consistent with general industry
practices, Fresh Air Solutions warrants its systems for one year from the date
of installation and Engelhard HexCore warrants its desiccant and heat exchange
rotors for an additional four years.
The Desert Cool(TM) system is designed to cool commercial applications with the
flexibility of utilizing any combination of circulated or fresh air. The Desert
Cool(TM) systems typically operate on natural gas, but are also available in
steam or waste heat operated models, and also have gas heating capabilities. All
of the systems incorporate the Engelhard HexCore's proprietary honeycomb rotors
and Engelhard's ETS(TM).
The Desert Breeze(TM) system, the first all-electric desiccant-based climate
control system, is important to compete in those markets where electricity is
the only or most practical source of energy. Currently, the majority of air
conditioning systems worldwide are electric powered. Desert Breeze(TM) system
sales have not been significant. Desert Breeze(TM) is designed to cool
commercial applications with the flexibility of utilizing either circulated or
fresh air. Unlike Fresh Air Solutions' natural gas systems, the electric units
combine desiccant technology with conventional coils and compressors which
provide heat to regenerate the desiccant rotors and partially cool the process
air. An additional conventional coil may be added to provide further
post-cooling as in the natural gas units. The system can use smaller compressors
with HCFC refrigerant than conventional air conditioning equipment, reducing the
amount of refrigerant required and power usage and peak kilowatt demand. The
system is also currently designed to allow for use of HFC refrigerant.
6
In 1998, Fresh Air Solutions expanded its product line in response to customer
demands to include enthalpy wheel energy recovery systems. The enthalpy wheel
energy recovery system is a single wheel lightly coated with desiccant material
which provides for limited cooling and passive dehumidification. The enthalpy
wheel energy recovery system operates as a supplement to conventional air
conditioning systems. The enthalpy wheel energy recovery system provides for
limited cooling and dehumidification at a relatively low cost. The enthalpy
wheel will in certain circumstances improve the effectiveness of existing
conventional air conditioning and thereby allow for the downsizing of the total
air conditioning requirements. The performance of the enthalpy wheel energy
recovery system is less than that of the two-wheel active humidity control
system. In addition, Fresh Air Solutions also introduced a single wheel
desiccant system which provides for dehumidification control only.
SALES AND MARKETING
Currently, Fresh Air Solutions markets its systems to specific applications in
the commercial air conditioning market in which its systems offer the greatest
advantages compared to conventional air conditioning systems. To date, Fresh Air
Solutions has marketed its systems primarily as a supplement to, or partial
replacement of, conventional air conditioning systems. Since Fresh Air
Solutions' products utilize an emerging technology, potential customers
carefully evaluate and, in most cases, purchase the systems for testing before
committing to further purchases. Fresh Air Solutions sells its systems
principally to end users either directly or through independent manufacturers'
representatives who purchase units at a discount or receive a commission. Fresh
Air Solutions has developed separate plans and departments for domestic and
international sales and marketing. Fresh Air Solutions primarily sells its
products domestically through its independent manufacturers' representatives and
direct sales staff.
United States. Fresh Air Solutions employs a direct sales staff of five sales
people and approximately 50 independent manufacturers' representatives to market
its systems in the United States. The direct sales staff markets the systems to
supermarket chains and national retailers, and oversees the manufacturers'
representatives. Fresh Air Solutions' manufacturers' representatives market to
regional customers and to national accounts which are not assigned to the direct
sales staff. At present, a majority of the manufacturers' representatives are
located in the southern and eastern regions of the country. Fresh Air Solutions
plans to increase its sales staff and upgrade its manufacturers' representative
network.
Gas and electric utilities have supported Fresh Air Solutions' efforts to create
market awareness and acceptance of its systems. The Gas Research Institute has
funded the independent testing of the performance of ETS(TM) and results have
validated the performance of ETS(TM) in the Partnership's natural gas systems.
The Department of Energy is currently funding the testing of the desiccant
climate control systems for validation of performance. In addition, gas
utilities sponsored the initial test sites for the Desert Cool(TM) system, and
have formed a consortium, under the auspices of the American Gas Cooling Center
to promote the desiccant natural gas systems. The consortium, with various
utilities currently participating, provides financial incentives and sponsors
training programs for engineers and building owners. The Desert Cool(TM) system
became the first desiccant-based unit ever to receive the 'Blue Star'
certification for safety and quality from the American Gas Association.
International. Fresh Air Solutions employs one direct sales person for
international sales. International sales and marketing efforts have focused on
the high humidity, developing regions of the Asian-Pacific market. In this
region, manufacturing and industrial companies are generally interested in the
desiccant systems to improve workers' comfort by lowering humidity.
International sales have been made to customers primarily in Japan, South Korea,
Mexico and Israel. International sales have been primarily made through various
licensing and distribution agreements or relationships. Fresh Air Solutions
plans to continue to market, sell and, in certain situations, assemble its
climate control systems through licensing arrangements or joint ventures with
other major companies in Asia-Pacific.
Fresh Air Solutions has marketing relationships and distribution agreements with
various international companies. There are no assurances that the various
international companies will continue to purchase systems from Fresh Air
Solutions.
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Nichimen, a Japanese trading company with approximately $60 billion in annual
sales, has been appointed a non-exclusive distributor of Fresh Air Solutions'
systems in Japan. Nichimen has established relationships with Osaka Gas, Tokyo
Gas, Toho Gas, Yamaha Engine (heat pump manufacturer) and has established a
national distribution network for Fresh Air Solutions' systems. No assurance can
be given as to whether Nichimen will purchase any significant number of natural
gas systems. Tokyo Gas is the largest and Osaka Gas is the second largest seller
of natural gas in Japan and as part of their marketing programs promote and sell
natural gas operated equipment to promote the use of natural gas.
The Partnership's joint market development agreement with Carrier's Asia-Pacific
Operations ("Carrier APO") which covers a significant portion of the
Asia-Pacific market expires in March 1998. The agreement did not result in any
significant sales of systems and is expected to be terminated by Fresh Air
Solutions due to lack of sales activity. Fresh Air Solutions anticipates it will
seek new market distribution agreements with other entities in the Asia-Pacific
market.
Export sales of equipment, primarily to the Asia Pacific market were
approximately $1,283,000, $1,457,000 and $643,000 in 1997, 1996 and 1995,
respectively.
As of March 25, 1998 and 1997, backlog of purchase orders for climate control
equipment was approximately $2 million and $3 million, respectively.
MANUFACTURING
Fresh Air Solutions assembles and manufactures its systems at its new,
approximately 140,000 square foot, leased facility located in Hatboro,
Pennsylvania. The new Hatboro facility provides for future capacity and
consolidated the previous Philadelphia office and manufacturing operations into
one location. The lease began in April 1997 with a ten-year term. The lease can
be terminated after the fifth year. In connection with the Restructuring of the
Partnership the lease was assigned to Fresh Air Solutions. The obligations under
the lease agreement continue to be guaranteed by Engelhard and ICC.
All of Fresh Air Solutions' honeycomb desiccant and heat-exchange rotors are
purchased from Engelhard HexCore which produces them at its Miami facility under
a supply agreement. See "Supplies and Materials".
As described below, Fresh Air Solutions and Engelhard HexCore have entered into
several licensing arrangements with respect to technology relating to their
respective businesses. Fresh Air Solutions and Engelhard HexCore may also
license, or otherwise permit, other companies in the United States or
internationally to manufacture their respective systems or components.
SUPPLIES AND MATERIALS
Except as described below, Fresh Air Solutions generally uses standard parts and
components in the manufacture of its systems and obtains such parts and
components from various independent suppliers. The Company believes Fresh Air
Solutions is not highly dependent on any specific supplier and could obtain
similar components from other suppliers, except for the rotors which are now
supplied by Engelhard HexCore.
In connection with the Restructuring, Engelhard HexCore and Fresh Air Solutions
entered into a rotor supply agreement ("Rotor Supply Agreement"). Pursuant to
the Rotor Supply Agreement, Engelhard HexCore has agreed to provide Fresh Air
Solutions with all its desiccant and heat-exchange rotors requirements. Fresh
Air Solutions has agreed to purchase all its rotor requirements at prices which
are lower than the best prices Engelhard HexCore will offer its other customers.
The term of the rotor supply agreement is fifteen years. Rotors supplied may be
used only as a component in the production of complete climate control systems
or as a part of a systems kit for assembly or as part of a cassette to
affiliates or strategic partners for inclusion in a climate control system. If
Fresh Air Solutions requires rotors with performance characteristics'
substantially different from those previously provided by Engelhard HexCore,
Fresh Air Solutions is required to first request such rotors from Engelhard
HexCore under the terms of the Rotor Supply Agreement. If Engelhard HexCore
elects not to provide such rotors, Fresh Air Solutions may obtain them from a
third party subject to certain limitations.
Engelhard HexCore purchases a proprietary strong, lightweight material from a
single supplier which is used as the base material in manufacturing the
honeycomb substrate for the Fresh Air Solutions' desiccant and heat-exchange
rotors. While this material is critical in the manufacture of the rotors and
Engelhard HexCore does not have a contractual agreement with such supplier, the
Company believes that Engelhard HexCore can obtain all of
8
its requirements for such material from such supplier for the foreseeable
future. In addition, the Company believes Engelhard HexCore could obtain
comparable alternatives to the current substrate used in the rotors.
ETS(TM) is a patented desiccant material manufactured exclusively by Engelhard.
Pursuant to the Engelhard Supply Agreement, Engelhard HexCore has agreed to
purchase exclusively from Engelhard all of the ETS(TM) or any improved desiccant
material developed by Engelhard that Engelhard HexCore may require in its
manufacture of rotors. In turn, Engelhard has agreed to sell to Engelhard
HexCore its total requirements for ETS(TM) or any improved desiccant material
developed by Engelhard. The price for ETS is adjusted as of January 1 of each
year during the term of the Engelhard Supply Agreement, which expires in the
year 2013. The Engelhard Supply Agreement does not include specific purchase
prices but does contain a 'competitive offer' provision, whereby Engelhard
HexCore is able to purchase from third parties similar desiccant products that
are equal to or better than the products sold by Engelhard should they become
available, at a price that is lower than the price established for ETS(TM) or
any improved desiccant material sold by Engelhard under the Engelhard Supply
Agreement, provided, however, that (i) Engelhard has the right to meet such
'competitive offer' in all material respects and (ii) any such third party offer
must be able to meet the Engelhard HexCore's requirements for such desiccants in
all material respects in order to be considered a 'competitive offer.'
THE PARTNERSHIP AND THE RESTRUCTURING
The Company and Engelhard formed Engelhard/ICC in February 1994 to pursue the
desiccant air conditioning business which previously had been conducted by the
Company. In exchange for a 50% interest in the Partnership, the Company
transferred to the Partnership substantially all of its assets relating to its
desiccant-based air conditioning business, subject to certain liabilities.
Engelhard, in exchange for a 50% interest in the Partnership, (i) contributed
$8,600,000 in capital to the Partnership, (ii) entered into the Engelhard Supply
Agreement and the Engelhard License Agreement for ETS and (iii) agreed to
provide credit support to the Partnership in the amount of $3,000,000. In
addition, Engelhard extinguished a $900,000 obligation due to it by the Company.
On February 27, 1998, the Company and Engelhard restructured the Partnership
("the Restructuring"). The Partnership was terminated and its net assets divided
into two separate operating limited partnerships, one to manufacture and market
complete, active climate control systems under the name Fresh Air Solutions, LP
and the other to manufacture and market products fabricated from honeycomb
substrate and the heat-exchange and desiccant coated wheel-shaped rotors that
are components of the climate control systems under the name Engelhard HexCore,
LP. All assets and liabilities of the Partnership related to or used in the
Partnership's climate control systems business (including all assets and
liabilities directly related to, located at or arising out of the Partnership's
Hatboro facility) were transferred or assigned to Fresh Air Solutions. Pursuant
to the Restructuring, ICC received approximately $18,600,000 in cash, a 90%
ownership interest in and full control of Fresh Air Solutions, L.P. ICC
Desiccant Technologies, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of ICC, is the sole
general partner of Fresh Air Solutions, L.P. All assets and liabilities of the
Partnership related to or used in the Partnership's honeycomb substrate and
rotor business (including all assets and liabilities directly related to,
located at or arising out of the Partnership's Miami facility) were retained by
Engelhard HexCore. ICC retained a 20% ownership interest in Engelhard HexCore,
L.P. Engelhard received an 80% ownership interest and full control of Engelhard
HexCore, L.P. Engelhard DT, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Engelhard is the
sole general partner of Engelhard HexCore. Fresh Air Solutions will purchase
rotors exclusively from Engelhard HexCore, LP and will receive preferential
pricing for such purchases. Engelhard will continue its guarantee on Fresh Air
Solutions, LP's facility lease until April 2002 and will continue to guarantee
$2,000,000 of Fresh Air Solutions, LP's debt with the guarantee being reduced to
$1,000,000 after February 1999 and completely terminated after February 2000. In
connection with the Restructuring, the Company's guarantee of 50% of the
Partnership's indebtedness associated with the industrial development bonds and
the related irrevocable letter of credit for $2,500,000 was terminated; as a
result, $2,500,000 in cash equivalents previously held as collateral became
unrestricted.
In connection with the Restructuring, Engelhard HexCore and Fresh Air Solutions
entered into the Rotor Supply Agreement whereby Engelhard HexCore will supply
Fresh Air Solutions with its heat-exchange and desiccant rotor requirements.
Furthermore, Engelhard HexCore and Fresh Air Solutions entered into reciprocal
technology
9
license agreements whereby nonexclusive, royalty free, perpetual licenses with
the further right to sublicense, certain technology related to Engelhard
HexCore's and Fresh Air Solutions' respective businesses related to patents or
patent applications existing or filed within one year of the Restructuring.
Fresh Air Solutions was also granted a royalty free license to use the name
"Engelhard" as part of the "Engelhard/ICC" trademark for a thirty month period
following the Restructuring. See "Patents and Proprietary Information".
In connection with the Restructuring, Engelhard HexCore and Fresh Air Solutions
entered into a cassette supply agreement whereby Fresh Air Solutions will supply
Engelhard HexCore with cassettes, which consist of a structure that holds a
rotor, coated or uncoated with ETS(TM), supported by castors or a hub, which
itself consists of seals, drive motor, belt and other components required to
conduct heat or mass transfer. Cassettes will be sold to Engelhard HexCore at
favorable prices relative to other customers of Fresh Air Solutions. The term of
the agreement is five years. Also, in connection with the Restructuring, a
sensor supply agreement was entered into related to the sale of humidity and dew
point infrared sensors to Fresh Air Solutions at more favorable prices related
to other customers of Engelhard for a period of five years. Also, pursuant to a
Referral Agreement, Fresh Air Solutions agreed to sell climate control systems
to customers referred to it by Engelhard HexCore in order to assist Engelhard
HexCore in generating interest in the purchase of rotors. Such sales will be on
the same pricing terms as wholesale customers of Fresh Air Solutions and will be
limited in nature. The lawsuit brought against Engelhard by the Company in
connection with Engelhard's acquisition of the sensor company Telaire Systems,
Inc. was dismissed in connection with the Restructuring.
In accordance with the Restructuring, the Company has the option to acquire
Engelhard's interest in Fresh Air Solution at a price equal to 95% of the fair
market value as determined by mutually agreed to investment banker.
Correspondingly Engelhard has the option to acquire ICC's interest in Engelhard
HexCore at a price equal to 95% of the fair market value as determined by
mutually agreed to investment banker.
PATENTS AND PROPRIETARY INFORMATION
Fresh Air Solutions' ability to compete effectively with other manufacturers of
climate control equipment has been dependent upon, among other things, a
combination of (i) Fresh Air Solutions' proprietary desiccant system design,
(ii) Engelhard's patented ETS(TM) and (iii) Hexcel's proprietary process
licensed to Engelhard HexCore and utilized in manufacturing the small cell,
honeycomb substrate material used to make the systems' rotors. The Partnership
had been issued nine United States patents covering certain of its desiccant
technology which have been assigned to Fresh Air Solutions or Engelhard HexCore.
Several U.S. patent applications are pending which are directed to the products
manufactured and sold by Fresh Air Solutions and additional patent filings are
expected to be made in the future.
Fresh Air Solutions holds one U.S. patent expiring in 2010 related to using a
microprocessor to control the desiccant cooling systems in order to increase the
energy efficiency or effectiveness of the desiccant cooling process. Fresh Air
Solutions was also assigned nine other U.S. patents expiring between 2013 and
2015,
10
protecting its' intellectual property. Engelhard HexCore was assigned one U.S.
patent expiring in 2015. Similar patents have also been applied for by Fresh Air
Solutions in selected Asia-Pacific rim countries.
As part of the Restructuring of E/ICC, on February 27, 1998, Fresh Air Solutions
entered into the Box Technology License Agreement (the "Box Technology License")
with Engelhard Hexcore pursuant to which Fresh Air Solutions granted to
Engelhard Hexcore a nonexclusive, royalty free, world-wide, perpetual license,
with the further right to sublicense, to all technology related to the climate
control system business of Fresh Air Solutions and all improvements to such
technology that are conceived by employees of Fresh Air Solutions and are
subject to patents or patent applications filed within twelve months after
execution of the Box Technology License, other than improvements used solely on
gas platform systems. Engelhard Hexcore may, however, only use such technology
in the climate control systems business and businesses ancillary or reasonably
related thereto.
Also, as part of the Restructuring of E/ICC, on February 27, 1998, Fresh Air
Solutions and Engelhard Hexcore entered into the Wheel Technology License
Agreement (the "Wheel Technology License"), pursuant to which Engelhard Hexcore
granted Fresh Air Solutions a nonexclusive, royalty free, world-wide, perpetual
license with the further right to sublicense, for technology specifically
covered by certain patents relating to the rotor business and owned by Engelhard
Hexcore (which will not include Hexcore's proprietary process utilized in
manufacturing the small cell, honeycomb substrate material used to make
Engelhard Hexcore's rotors which is licensed to Engelhard Hexcore) and any
improvements to such technology conceived by employees or representatives of
Engelhard Hexcore that are subject to patents or patent applications within the
twelve month period after the signing of the agreement. Fresh Air Solutions
may, however, utilize such technology only in connection with the climate
control system business and businesses ancillary or reasonably related to
thereto.
Also, as part of the Restructuring of E/ICC, on February 27, 1998, Fresh Air
Solutions entered into the E/ICC License Agreement (the "E/ICC License") with
Engelhard, pursuant to which Engelhard granted Fresh Air Solutions a
non-exclusive, royalty free license to use the name "Engelhard" as part of the
"Engelhard/ICC" mark. The term of the E/ICC License is two and one half years.
Under the Engelhard License Agreement, Engelhard granted the Partnership an
exclusive, royalty-free license during the existence of the Partnership to use
Engelhard's proprietary technology relating to ETS(TM) for use in the
Partnership's business, including heating, ventilation and air conditioning
applications. ICC, through Fresh Air Solutions continues to have the right
to use the technology covered by the patents and the proprietary desiccant
system design in conducting the business of Fresh Air Solutions and expects to
derive benefit from the ETS(TM) and small-cell, honeycomb substrate material
used to make the Engelhard HexCore rotors through the purchase of rotors under
the Rotor Supply Agreement; however, Fresh Air Solutions will no longer have or
share in the exclusive right to any such technology. Moreover, Engelhard,
through Engelhard HexCore will have the right to use and, except with
respect to Hexcel, sublicense others to use, such technology through its rights
under the Box Technology License and ownership of the patented ETS(TM) and the
Hexcel license. Fresh Air Solutions will retain exclusive rights to sell its
systems to standalone supermarkets, ice rinks, and pachinko halls in North
America, Japan and Korea for a seven year period provided that Fresh Air
Solutions meets certain agreed to performance targets for sales to these
markets.
Fresh Air Solutions has trademark applications for "Desert Cool(TM)" and "Desert
Breeze(TM)" in the United States and overseas for heating, ventilation and air
conditioning systems.
COMPETITION
Fresh Air Solutions currently competes against other manufacturers of
conventional and desiccant-based air conditioning systems primarily on the basis
of capabilities, performance, reliability, price and operating efficiencies.
Fresh Air Solutions competes with manufacturers in the conventional heating,
ventilation and air conditioning equipment industry, including Trane Company,
York International Corporation, Carrier and others that have significantly more
resources and experience in designing, manufacturing and marketing of air
conditioning systems than does Fresh Air Solutions. The Company believes Fresh
Air Solutions systems provide the following advantages over conventional air
conditioning systems: more effectively control humidity; improve
11
indoor air quality; offer energy versatility; and reduce the amount of
refrigerants required. Fresh Air Solutions also competes with several companies
selling desiccant-based climate control systems, including Munters Corporation
and Semco Incorporated. However, the Company believes its systems perform better
and are more economical to operate than competing desiccant-based systems due to
their honeycomb rotors coated with Engelhard's ETS(TM).
EMPLOYEES
In connection with the Restructuring of the Partnership on February 27, 1998,
substantially all of the employees of the Hatboro operations became employees of
Fresh Air Solutions and substantially all of the employees of the Miami
operations became employees of Engelhard HexCore. The Company employed 4
full-time persons and the Partnership employed 137 full-time persons as of
December 31, 1997, none of whom are represented by unions. Fresh Air Solutions
currently has 80 full time employees.
GOVERNMENT REGULATION
In recent years, increasing concern about damage to the earth's ozone layer
caused by ozone depleting substances has resulted in significant legislation
governing the production of products containing CFCs. Under the Montreal
Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, as amended in 1992 (the
'Montreal Protocol'), many countries have agreed to cease all production and
consumption of CFCs, some of which are utilized in air conditioning and
refrigeration equipment. The Montreal Protocol has been implemented in the
United States through the Clean Air Act and the regulations promulgated
thereunder by the Environmental Protection Agency (the 'EPA'). The production
and use of refrigerants containing CFCs are subject to extensive and changing
federal and state laws and substantial regulation under these laws by federal,
state and local government agencies. In addition to the United States, Japan,
mainland China, Israel and Thailand are among the signatories to the Montreal
Protocol. The manner in which other countries implement the Montreal Protocol
could differ from the approach taken in the United States.
As a result of the regulation of CFCs, the air conditioning and refrigeration
industries are turning to substitute substances such as HCFCs, HFCs and light
hydrocarbons. HCFCs have 1 to 10% of the ozone-depleting potential of CFCs.
However, the production of HCFCs for use in new equipment is currently scheduled
to be phased out as of the year 2020 and the production of HCFCs for the
servicing of existing equipment is currently scheduled to be phased out as of
the year 2030 in the United States and other signatory countries pursuant to the
Montreal Protocol. Reduction of the use of HFCs is also being considered by many
countries because of their substantial global warming potential.
The Framework Convention on Climate Change (the '1992 Rio Accord') and related
conferences and agreements focused on the link between economic development and
environmental protection. Under the Rio Accord, approximately 180 signatory
countries have agreed to establish a process by which they can monitor and
control the emission of 'greenhouse gases,' defined as gaseous constituents of
the atmosphere that absorb and re-emit infrared radiation, which include HFCs.
Parties to the 1992 Rio Accord must provide national inventories of 'sources'
(which release greenhouse gases, aerosols or precursors thereof into the
atmosphere) and 'sinks' (which remove greenhouse gases, aerosols or precursors
thereof from the atmosphere), and regular reports on policies and measures which
limit the emissions by sources and enhance the removal by sinks of gases not
controlled by the Montreal Protocol. No given level or specific date for the
control of greenhouse gas emissions have been explicitly provided, although the
United States government submitted a plan to the Rio Standing Committee on its
proposal for achieving this goal by the year 2000 and Articles 2(a) and (b) of
the 1992 Rio Accord indicated there was an initial goal of returning to 1990
levels of greenhouse gas emissions by the year 2000.
The Clean Air Act now requires the recycling and recovery of all refrigerants
used in residential and commercial air conditioning and refrigeration systems.
As a result, there are increasing costs involved in the manufacturing, handling
and servicing of refrigerant-based equipment. In Fresh Air Solutions' systems,
the cooling coils and compressors included as a post-cooling option in
non-electric models are smaller, and in electric models generally are smaller,
than would otherwise be required in a conventional air conditioning system, and
therefore require less refrigerants.
12
The indoor air quality standards in the United States, as set forth by ASHRAE
Standard 62-1989 Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality, now require that
up to 200-300% more fresh air be introduced into buildings in certain
circumstances as compared to prior regulations. The purpose of such standards is
to specify minimum ventilation levels and indoor air quality levels in order to
minimize the potential for adverse health effects typically associated with
'Sick Building Syndrome.' According to a study by the National Conference of
States on Building Codes and Standards, Inc. (the 'NCSBCS Study'), there are 30
states which have incorporated the ASHRAE 62-1989 ventilation standards in one
form or another as mandatory building code requirements into their respective
building codes (including energy and mechanical codes) for new construction of
certain and, in some cases, all types of buildings. Of such states, 18 states
require mandatory compliance with ASHRAE 62-1989 by all local jurisdictions and
an additional seven states require all local jurisdictions which elect to adopt
a building code to comply, at a minimum, with ASHRAE 62-1989. According to the
NCSBCS Study, there are ten other states which, while not adopting ASHRAE
62-1989 into their building codes, have referenced ASHRAE 62-1989 as a
recognized industry standard. Of the remaining 10 states, five states have
adopted building codes with ventilation requirements similar to those of ASHRAE
62-1989 and several major cities in the remaining five states either reference
ASHRAE 62-1989 as an industry standard or set similar ventilation requirements
according to the NCSBCS Study. In addition, the Company believes that due to
liability concerns and customer demands, it is an increasingly standard
engineering practice throughout the country to incorporate the ASHRAE
ventilation standards in new commercial building construction even when not
required by applicable building codes, and the Company believes that Fresh Air
Solutions' business prospects are enhanced because Fresh Air Solutions' climate
control systems currently enable buildings to meet or exceed such standards.
A new revised standard under consideration, ASHRAE 62-1989R, would limit
relative humidity to 60% or less, the Company believes that Fresh Air Solutions'
climate control systems currently enable buildings to meet or exceed such
standards.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
The manufacturing facility and executive offices of both the Company and Fresh
Air Solutions are currently located at 330 South Warminster Road Hatboro,
Pennsylvania 19040. Fresh Air Solutions currently has approximately 140,000
square feet under a lease at this location.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Currently, the Company is not engaged in any material lawsuits.
In February 1997, the Company , together with its wholly-owned subsidiary, ICC
Desiccant Technologies, Inc. and Engelhard/ICC (the "Plaintiffs"), filed a
Complaint in the Court of Common Pleas, Philadelphia County (February Term,
1997, No. 496) against Engelhard and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Engelhard
Sensor Technologies, Inc., in which the company asserted that, in September,
1996, the Company made Engelhard aware of certain technology owned by Telaire
Systems, Inc. ("Telaire") which could be utilized by Engelhard/ICC and that
Engelhard subsequently breached several legal duties it owed the Plaintiffs by
acquiring the assets of Telaire. The Plaintiffs requested that the court: (i)
enjoin Engelhard and its subsidiaries from licensing or otherwise selling,
marketing or transferring the technology it acquired from Telaire without the
written consent of the Plaintiffs, (ii) require Engelhard and its subsidiaries
to disclose all information concerning its acquisition of the assets of Telaire,
(iii) require Engelhard and its subsidiaries to make an accounting of all
profits derived from Engelhard's use of Telaire's technology, and (iv)
compensatory and punitive damages. This lawsuit was dismissed with prejudice by
ICC and the Partnership and mutual general releases were executed by all of the
parties in connection with the E/ICC Restructuring.
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
No matters were submitted to a vote of security holders during the fourth
quarter of the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997.
13
A special meeting of Stockholders of ICC was held on February 23, 1998, at 10:00
AM EST, at 330 South Warminster Road, Hatboro, Pennsylvania 19040 to approve a
Master Agreement by and among ICC, Engelhard Corporation and Engelhard/ICC which
provided in substance for the Restructuring of the Partnership.
PART II
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ITEM 5. MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED
STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
ICC's Common Stock trades on the Nasdaq National Market under the symbol
ICGN. Prior to February 15, 1996 the Company's Stock was listed on the Nasdaq
Small Cap Market. Based on reports provided by Nasdaq, the range of high and low
bids for ICC's Common Stock for the two most recent fiscal years are as follows:
1997
4th Qtr 3rd Qtr 2nd Qtr 1st Qtr
------- ------- ------- -------
High Bid: $4.81 $5.25 $6.88 $7.06
Low Bid: $1.56 $4.25 $4.38 $4.88
1996
4th Qtr 3rd Qtr 2nd Qtr 1st Qtr
------- ------- ------- -------
High Bid: $7.75 $9.25 $10.00 $12.38
Low Bid: $4.88 $5.25 $ 5.38 $ 6.38
The above quotations reported by Nasdaq represent prices between dealers and
do not include retail mark-ups, mark-downs or commissions. Such quotations may
not represent actual transactions. On March 25, 1998, the last reported sale
price for the Common Stock was $2.562 per share.
As of March 25, 1998, ICC had approximately 1,200 recordholders of Common
Stock. This number was derived from the Company's stockholder records, and does
not include beneficial owners of the Common Stock whose shares are held in the
names of various dealers, clearing agencies, banks, brokers, and other
fiduciaries. The Company believes it has approximately 11,000 beneficial owners
of its Common Stock. Holders of Common Stock are entitled to share ratably in
dividends, if and when declared by the Board of Directors. Other than an in-kind
warrant dividend declared by the Board of Directors in June 1990, the Company
has never paid a dividend on its Common Stock and it is unlikely that any
dividends will be paid in the foreseeable future. The payment of cash dividends
on the Common Stock will depend on, among other things, the earnings, capital
requirements and financial condition of the Company and Fresh Air Solutions, and
general business conditions. In addition, future borrowings or issuances of
Preferred Stock may prohibit or restrict the Company's ability to pay or declare
dividends.
14
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
The following historical selected financial data of the Company for the years
ended December 31, 1997, 1996, 1995, 1994 and 1993 have been derived from
financial statements that have been audited by the Company's Independent
Accountants, whose reports thereon include an explanatory paragraph regarding
substantial doubt about the Company's ability to continue as a going concern.
There were no cash dividends paid to holders of Common Stock in any of these
years. The data should be read in conjunction with the Company's financial
statements and the notes thereto included elsewhere in this Form 10-K.
(ALL AMOUNTS EXPRESSED IN DOLLARS EXCEPT WEIGHTED AVERAGE SHARES OUTSTANDING)
Unaudited
Pro Forma Historical
------------ ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Year Ended December 31:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INCOME STATEMENT DATA: 1997(1) 1997 1996 1995 1994(3) 1993
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Revenues(4) $ 6,772,061 $ 492,870 $ 688,411 $ 362,153 $ 162,285 $ 1,216,032
Expenses(5) 24,625,836 13,976,955 7,843,020 6,685,526 4,553,367 5,273,884
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Net Loss (17,853,775) (13,484,085) (7,154,609) (6,323,373) (4,391,082) (4,057,852)
Cumulative preferred stock
dividend requirements 0 0 (49,655) (301,413) (227,750) (261,500)
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Net loss applicable to
common stockholders $(17,853,775) $(13,484,085) $ (7,204,264) $ (6,624,786) $ (4,618,832) $ (4,319,352)
============ ============ ============ ============ ============ ============
Loss per common share $ (.84) $ (.63) $ (.35) $ (.47) $ (.41) $ (.51)
Weighted average
shares outstanding 21,339,635 21,339,635 20,322,952 14,072,867 11,390,981 8,550,852
Unaudited
Pro Forma Historical
----------- -----------------------------------------------------------------------
As of December 31:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALANCE SHEET DATA: 1997(2) 1997 1996 1995 1994(3) 1993
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Total assets $29,699,820 $ 4,521,656 $12,250,865 $ 4,796,426 $ 2,397,522 $ 2,564,302
Working capital 18,598,338 1,382,537 9,661,805 1,827,797 1,072,485 1,206,700
Long-term obligations 198,685 0 0 0 150,000 650,000
Total liabilities 7,536,984 7,583,862 2,179,467 3,262,614 426,782 1,520,631
Stockholders' equity (deficit) 22,162,836 (3,062,206) 10,071,398 1,533,812 1,970,740 1,043,671
(1) The unaudited pro forma consolidated financial information is presented to
illustrate the effect of the Restructuring of the Partnership, pursuant to
the Master Agreement, on the Company's results of operations as if it
occurred on January 1, 1997. Refer to the unaudited pro forma consolidated
financial statements appearing in Exhibit 99.
(2) The unaudited pro forma consolidated financial information is presented to
illustrate the effect of the Restructuring of the Partnership, pursuant to
the Master Agreement on the Company's financial position as if it occurred
December 31, 1997. Refer to the unaudited pro forma consolidated financial
statements appearing in Exhibit 99.
15
(3) On February 7, 1994, the Company transferred its desiccant climate control
business in exchange for a 50% interest in the Partnership.
(4) Revenues consist of interest income and other income for 1994, 1995, 1996
and 1997. For 1993 and for the pro forma period presented, revenues also
include sale of equipment.
(5) Expenses consists of equity interest in net loss of Engelhard/ICC, general
and administrative expense and interest expense for 1994, 1995, 1996 and
1997. For 1993 and for the pro forma period presented, expenses include
cost of goods sold, other operating expenses and minority interest.
16
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
OVERVIEW
The Company, through Fresh Air Solutions, designs, manufactures and markets
innovative climate control systems to supplement or replace conventional air
conditioning systems.
The Company and Engelhard formed Engelhard/ICC (the "Partnership") in February
1994 to pursue the desiccant air conditioning business which previously had been
conducted by the Company. In exchange for a 50% interest in the Partnership, the
Company transferred to the Partnership substantially all of its assets relating
to its desiccant-based air conditioning business, subject to certain
liabilities. Engelhard, in exchange for a 50% interest in the Partnership, (i)
contributed $8,600,000 in capital to the Partnership, (ii) entered into the
Engelhard Supply Agreement and the Engelhard License Agreement for ETS and (iii)
agreed to provide credit support to the Partnership in the amount of $3,000,000.
In addition, Engelhard extinguished a $900,000 obligation due to it by the
Company.
On February 27, 1998, the Company and Engelhard restructured the Partnership.
The Partnership was terminated and its net assets were divided into two separate
operating limited partnerships, one to manufacture and market complete, active
climate control systems under the name Fresh Air Solutions, LP and the other to
manufacture and market products fabricated from honeycomb substrate material and
the heat-exchange and desiccant coated wheel-shaped rotors that are components
of the climate control systems under the name Engelhard HexCore, LP. All assets
and liabilities of the Partnership related to or used in the Partnership's
climate control systems business (including all assets and liabilities directly
related to, located at or arising out of the Partnership's Hatboro facility)
were transferred or assigned to Fresh Air Solutions. Under the Restructuring ICC
received approximately $18,600,000 in cash, a 90% ownership interest in and full
management control of Fresh Air Solutions, LP. All assets and liabilities of the
Partnership related to or used in the Partnership's honeycomb substrate and
rotor business (including all assets and liabilities directly related to,
located at or arising out of the Partnership's Miami facility) were retained by
Engelhard HexCore. ICC retained a 20% ownership interest in Engelhard HexCore,
LP. Engelhard received an 80% ownership interest in and full management control
of Engelhard HexCore.
17
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Year Ended December 31, 1997 compared with Year Ended December 31, 1996
The Partnership's revenue for the year ended December 31, 1997 increased
$1,734,403 to $12,239,012 from $10,504,609 for the year ended December 31, 1996.
This increase in revenues is due primarily to increased substrate sales and
equipment sales. Sales of substrate from the Miami plant to Hexcel pursuant to a
supply agreement increased 35% to approximately $5.8 million in 1997 from $4.3
million in 1996. Equipment sales increased 4% to approximately $6.3 million in
1997 compared to approximately $6.1 million in 1996. The Partnership's gross
loss for the year ended December 31, 1997 increased $1,949,920 to $5,221,770
from $3,271,850 for the year ended December 31,1996. The increase in gross loss
is due primarily to increased provisions for inventory obsolescence and warranty
costs. The provision for inventory obsolescence increased by approximately
$1,300,000 to cover primarily slow moving components related to older desiccant
unit versions. The Partnership incurred warranty costs of $2.2 million in 1997
related primarily to premature component failures and odor issues which the
Company believes it has rectified through design changes, system operation
modifications and quality control improvements. Premature component failures
related primarily to failures of certain castor wheels upon which the desiccant
or heat exchange wheels rotate. In certain installations the desiccant wheel
adsorbed not only moisture but compounds in the air that produced odors. Through
modifications to the operation of the system cycles, addition of dampers and
replacement of contaminated wheels, Fresh Air Solutions believes it can control
the odors that are created under certain circumstances. The Company believes
that Fresh Air Solutions has adequately provided for existing and potential
future warranty claims.
The Partnership's active humidity climate control systems are an emerging
technology and have been subject to numerous improvements and modifications.
Sales volumes have been lower than the capacity to produce and revenues have not
been sufficient to cover fixed and variable costs of production.
As a result of the Partnership Restructuring, Fresh Air Solutions' will not
receive any revenues from ongoing substrate sales, as that business was retained
by Engelhard HexCore.
The Partnership's operating expenses increased $2,141,015 to $11,021,859 for the
year ended December 31, 1997 compared to $8,880,844 for the year ended December
31, 1996, due to higher marketing, engineering and general and administrative
costs which more than offset reduced research and development costs. General and
administrative costs increased approximately $733,000 due to increased
depreciation and amortization of approximately $275,000 and an increase in the
bad debt provision of approximately $403,000. Marketing expenses increased
approximately $541,000 as a result of increased marketing efforts and increased
sales and marketing personnel. Engineering costs increased approximately
$1,020,000 due to increased engineering staff costs of approximately $461,000
and increased engineering consulting services of approximately $465,000. The
loss from operations for the year ended December 31,1997 increased $4,090,935 to
$16,243,629 compared to $12,152,694 for the year ended December 31, 1996.
The Partnership's net loss increased $4,134,697 to $16,724,361 for the year
ended December 31, 1997 from $12,589,664 for the year ended December 31, 1996
due to the increase in the loss from operations of $4,090,935 discussed above
and reduced interest income.
The Company realized a decrease in interest and other income of $195,541 to
$492,870 for the year ended December 31, 1997 as compared to $688,411 for the
year ended December 31,1996, which was primarily attributable to a decrease in
the average balance of cash and cash equivalents. The Company's increase in its
equity interest in the net loss of the Partnership increased $5,690,529 to $
11,985,361 for the year ended December 31, 1997 as compared to $6,294,832 for
the year ended December 31, 1996 which was due to the increased Partnership loss
and the increased share of the loss recognized by the Company as a result of a
limit placed on the loss recognized by Engelhard of approximately $4,700,000 in
connection with Master Agreement governing
18
the Restructuring. The Company's general and administrative expenses increased
$446,000 to $1,991,594 for the year ended December 31, 1997 compared to
$1,545,594 for the same period in 1996 primarily the result of an increase in
professional and consulting fees.
The Company's net loss for the year ended December 31, 1997 increased $6,329,476
to $13,484,085 from $7,154,609 for the same period in 1996. Net loss per share
of Common Stock increased $.28 to $.63 for the year ended December 31, 1997 from
$.35 for the same period in 1996 primarily the result of the increased loss of
the Partnership and the increased share of the Partnership loss recognized by
the Company in connection with the Master Agreement governing the Restructuring.
The backlog of purchase orders as of March 25, 1998 is approximately $2 million
which is approximately $1 million less than the comparable period in 1997. The
decrease in backlog is primarily attributable to a significant declined in
orders from the Asia-Pacific market and to customer concerns over component
failures and odor issues. The decline in the Asia-Pacific market activity is
largely attributable to the Asian-Pacific economies experiencing lower economic
growth than had been previously enjoyed resulting in declines in many of the
Asia-Pacific currencies in comparison to the US dollar. Continued weakness in
Asian-Pacific currencies could adversely impact Asian-Pacific market activities.
In connection with the Restructuring, Engelhard HexCore and Fresh Air Solutions
entered into the Rotor Supply Agreement whereby Engelhard HexCore will supply
Fresh Air Solutions with its heat-exchange and desiccant rotor requirements.
Fresh Air Solutions is obligated to purchase its rotor requirements from
Engelhard HexCore. All rotors will be purchased at prices which are lower than
the best price Engelhard HexCore offers to other customers. The term of the
rotor supply agreement is fifteen years. Under the Rotor Supply Agreement,
Engelhard HexCore will sell all desiccant and heat-exchange rotors to Fresh Air
Solutions atf prices which are lower than it will sell rotors to others
("Favorable Wheel Prices"). Moreover, during the first two years under the Rotor
Supply Agreement, Engelhard HexCore has agreed to sell such rotors at prices
which are lower than the Favorable Wheel Prices. Although Fresh Air Solutions
will receive preferential pricing for such purchases, it is required to purchase
rotors that will cover approximately $600,000 in costs annually. Initially the
Company believes that rotor costs will be obtained at prices higher than had
been obtained when rotors were transferred intra-partnership at cost prior to
the Restructuring of the Partnership; however, the Company believes as the
demand for rotors increase and as Engelhard HexCore begins to sell to other end
users, the price of rotors will decline.
ICC, through Fresh Air Solutions continues to have the right to use the
technology covered by the patents and the proprietary desiccant system design in
conducting the business of Fresh Air Solutions and expects to derive benefit
from the ETS(TM) and small-cell, honeycomb substrate material used to make the
Engelhard HexCore rotors through the purchase of rotors under the Rotor Supply
Agreement; however, Fresh Air Solutions will no longer have or share in the
exclusive right to any such technology. Moreover, Engelhard, through Engelhard
HexCore will have the right to use and, except with respect to Hexcel, the
successor corporation to the former owner of the Partnership's Miami Plant,
sublicense others to use, such technology through its rights under the Box
Technology License and ownership of the patented ETS(TM) and the Hexcel license.
Fresh Air Solutions will retain exclusive rights to sell its systems to
standalone supermarkets, ice rinks, and pachinko halls in North America, Japan
and Korea for a seven year period provided that Fresh Air Solutions meets
certain agreed to performance targets for sales to these markets.
Year Ended December 31, 1996 compared with Year Ended December 31, 1995
The Partnership's revenue for the year ended December 31, 1996 increased
$1,560,330 to $10,504,609 from $8,944,279 for the year ended December 31, 1995.
This increase in revenues is due primarily to increased equipment sales, the
effects of which more than offset a decline in sales of substrate and the
receipt of a non-recurring licensing fee in 1995. Equipment sales increased 138%
to approximately $6.1 million in 1996 compared to approximately $2.6 million in
1995. The sale of substrate from the Miami plant to Hexcel pursuant to a supply
agreement decreased to approximately $4.3 million in 1996 from $5.8 million in
1995. In 1995 a non-recurring licensing fee of $500,000 from Chung-Hsin was
earned while no licensing fees were earned in 1996. The Partnership's gross loss
for the year ended December 31, 1996 increased $1,332,134 to $3,271,850 from
$1,939,716 for the year ended December 31,1995. The increase in gross loss is
due primarily to reduced margins on the sale of substrate of approximately
$400,000 resulting from a decline in substrate sales, an increase in the
provision for inventory obsolescence of $341,000 and receipt in 1995 of the
non-recurring licensing fee of $500,000.
Continued negative margins have occurred due to the sales volume being lower
than the Partnership's capacity to produce its climate control systems and
revenues were not sufficient to cover both fixed and variable costs of
production. Furthermore, the equipment produced by the Partnership has been
subject to numerous improvements and modifications which have increased costs
incurred in the production process.
The Partnership's operating expenses increased $957,919 to $8,880,844 for the
year ended December 31, 1996 compared to $7,922,925 for the year ended December
31, 1995, due to higher general and administrative, marketing and engineering
costs. General and administrative costs increased approximately $767,000 due
primarily to increased payroll and severance costs. Marketing expenses
increased approximately $152,000 as a result of increased marketing efforts and
increased sales and marketing personnel. Engineering costs increased
approximately $117,000. The loss from operations for the year ended December
31,1996 increased $2,290,053 to $12,152,694 compared to $9,862,641 for the year
ended December 31, 1995.
19
The Partnership's net loss increased $2,017,441 to $12,589,664 for the year
ended December 31, 1996 from $10,572,223 for the year ended December 31, 1995
due to the increase in the loss of operations of $2,290,053 discussed above
which more than offset a $272,612 decrease in interest expense resulting
primarily from reduced interest rates.
The Company realized an increase in interest and other income of $326,258 to
$688,411 for the year ended December 31, 1996 as compared to $362,153 for the
year ended December 31,1995, which was primarily attributable to an increase in
the average balance of cash equivalents resulting from the investing of the
proceeds from the secondary public offering in the first quarter for the year
ended December 31, 1996. The Company's increase in its 50% equity interest in
the net loss of the Partnership increased $1,008,720 to $ 6,294,832 for the year
ended December 31, 1996 as compared to $5,286,112 for the year ended December
31, 1995. The Company's general and administrative expenses increased $162,430
to $1,545,594 for the year ended December 31, 1996 compared to $1,383,164 for
the same period in 1995 primarily the result of an increased payroll and other
administrative costs.
The Company's net loss for the year ended December 31, 1996 increased $831,236
to $7,154,609 from $6,323,373 for the same period in 1995. Net loss per share of
Common Stock decreased $.12 to $.35 for the year ended December 31, 1995 from
$.47 for the same period in 1995 primarily the result of additional shares
outstanding resulting from the public secondary offering.
The Company's and the Partnership's operations have not been significantly
affected by inflation.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
The Partnership's cash and cash equivalents decreased to $275,717 at December
31, 1997 from $1,192,997 at December 31, 1996. The decreases were due to cash
consumed in operations and investing activities exceeding the capital
contributions from the partners. Fresh Air Solutions is expected to require
additional financing to support anticipated growth and will be dependent on the
Company to provide additional financing to support its current operations and
future expansion.
Net cash used in operating activities by the Partnership was $9,939,756 for the
year ended December 31,1997 due to the net loss of $16,724,361 which offset
noncash charges of $5,968,747 and reduced working capital needs of $3,134,704.
Net working capital reductions were primarily the result of increases in accrued
expenses and other liabilities which offset the decreases in receivables,
inventories, prepaid expenses and payables. Net cash used in investing
activities by the Partnership was $2,919,349 for the year ended December 31,
1997. Net cash used in investing activities was primarily the result of
additional equipment and fixtures which was offset by drawn cash held in escrow.
Operating and investing activities were financed by $6,775,000 in capital
contributions by the Company and $5,175,000 in capital contributions by
Engelhard.
The Partnership's cash and cash equivalents increased to $1,192,997 at December
31, 1996 from $346,480 at December 31, 1995. The increases were due to capital
contributions from the Company and Engelhard funding the Partnership's net
losses and capital investments.
Net cash used in operating activities by the Partnership was $12,441,884 for the
year ended December 31, 1996 due to the net loss of $12,589,664 and net working
capital needs of $2,205,778 which offset noncash charges of $2,353,558. Net
working capital utilized was primarily the result of increases in inventory and
receivables which offset the increase in payables related to the increased
sales. Net cash used in investing activities by the Partnership was $716,703 for
the year ended December 31, 1996. Net cash used in investing activities was
primarily the result of additional equipment and fixtures which was offset by
drawn cash held in escrow. Operating and investing activities were financed by
$14 million in capital contributions equally by the Company and Engelhard.
Net cash used in operating activities by the Partnership was $12,105,251 for the
year ended December 31, 1995 due to the net loss of $10,572,223 and net working
capital needs of $3,265,030 which offset noncash charges of
20
$1,732,002. Net working capital utilized was primarily the result of increases
in inventory and receivables related to the increased sales. Capital
expenditures of approximately $1,400,000 were incurred primarily for machinery
and equipment. Net cash used in operating activities and capital expenditures
were financed with net borrowings of $7,194,988 and capital contributions
aggregating $6,000,000 from the Company and Engelhard.
In April 1995, the Partnership obtained financing from the issuance of $8.5
million in industrial development revenue bonds. The proceeds of these bonds
were utilized to repay a portion of the loan provided by the general partners
and to fund improvements and capital expenditures at the Miami facility. The
Company guaranteed 50% of the Partnership's indebtedness associated with the
industrial development revenue bonds and established an irrevocable letter of
credit for $2,500,000 to support its portion of the guarantee, which was
collateralized by a $2,500,000 certificate of deposit. In May 1995, each general
partner was repaid $1,500,000 of the $8,000,000 aggregate loan from the Company
and Engelhard made in December 1994, of which the remaining amount, $2,500,000
for each general partner, was converted into an investment in the Partnership.
During 1995, each partner made capital contributions of $3,000,000 to the
Partnership. In addition, the Partnership borrowed $2,750,000 from a bank
through a short-term loan. In connection with the Restructuring, the Company's
guarantee of 50% of the Partnership's indebtedness associated with the
industrial development bonds and the related irrevocable letter of credit for
$2,500,000 was terminated; as a result, $2,500,000 in cash equivalents
previously held as collateral became unrestricted.
The Company's cash and cash equivalents amounted to $1,257,483, $9,641,114 and
$1,573,475 at December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively. The cash utilized
in the Company's operating and investing activities was financed primarily
through proceeds from the issuance of stock and exercise of stock options and
warrants. Management believes that Fresh Air Solutions will require additional
capital contributions during 1998, and the Company plans to satisfy such capital
contribution requirements from its available cash and cash equivalents that it
received in connection with the Restructuring. To the extent Fresh Air Solutions
capital contributions in excess of the available proceeds from the Restructuring
are required, or the Company requires additional funds to continue its
activities, the Company would expect to satisfy such requirements by seeking
equity financing. The Company's ability to successfully obtain equity financing
in the future is dependent in part on market conditions and the performance of
Fresh Air Solutions. There can be no assurance that the Company will be able to
obtain equity financing in the future.
The Company's ability to attain profitable operations and positive cash flows
from operations is primarily dependent on increasing sales of Fresh Air
Solutions. Fresh Air Solutions expects to achieve increased sales through
targeted marketing of its products to end users, upgrade and increase its
manufacturers' representative network, introduce new commission sales incentive
programs, expansion of product line with introduction of single wheel systems,
establish new strategic relationships with domestic and international
manufacturers/distributors of air conditioning equipment and improved
dissemination of product information through web site, trade shows and
newsletters to improve market awareness. The Company expects to improve cash
flow by increasing sales, reduction of manufacturing costs through process
improvements, product design changes and increased unit production and through
reduction in operating expenses through reduction in support staff and
constraints on discretionary spending. In connection with the Restructuring, the
Company received approximately $18,600,000 in cash from Engelhard and obtained a
release from restrictions of $2,500,000 in cash, which had been pledged as
collateral for long-term debt of Engelhard/ICC. The Company expects to use this
cash to support the operations of Fresh Air Solutions and to seek other
investment opportunities. The Company believes that the cash obtained from the
Restructuring combined with its plans to increase sales and reduce costs will
permit it to continue operations for at least the next fiscal year.
Engelhard will continue its guarantee on Fresh Air Solutions, LP's facility
lease until April 2002 and will continue to guarantee $2,000,000 of Fresh Air
Solutions, LP's debt with the guarantee being reduced to $1,000,000 after
February 1999 and completely terminated after February 2000.
On December 24, 1997 the Company loaned $350,000 to a potential acquisition
candidate which is engaged in a business that is unrelated to the desiccant
based climate control system business. In connection with such loan, such
potential acquisition candidate agreed not to enter into discussions with
respect to an acquisition agreement with any other entity (the "Standstill
Agreement"). The loan is unsecured and matures on the earlier of (i) five years,
(ii) the consummation of an acquisition agreement by such candidate with another
entity, or (iii) the receipt by such candidate of significant financing from
other sources. The loan bears interest at the prime rate of 8.5% payable at
maturity and is adjusted to the current prime rate at each annual anniversary
date. Subsequent to December 31, 1997 the Company loaned an additional
$1,150,000 to
21
such acquisition candidate and such candidate's Standstill Agreement was
extended through April 30, 1998. While the Company has had ongoing discussions
and negotiations regarding the potential acquisition of such candidate, the
Company has not as of the date of this report entered into a definitive binding
agreement for such acquisition and there can be no assurance that the Company
will acquire such acquisition candidate.
The Company is continuing to seek and evaluate acquisition opportunities related
or unrelated to desiccant technology, that would help broaden its product
offerings or permit ICC to enter new areas of business and that demonstrate
capabilities of enhancing shareholder value. Presently, although the Company is
exploring the possibility of pursuing other ventures, to date it has not entered
into any binding agreements to do so. ICC may enter any other business it deems
appropriate, whether or not related to Fresh Air Solutions business, except that
it may not be a reseller of wheel-shaped rotors acquired from Engelhard HexCore
other than as a component in the production and sale of climate control systems.
Net cash used in operating activities by the Company was $711,675 for the year
ended December 31, 1996 due to the net loss, before non-cash charges and the
Company's 50% share of the net loss of the Partnership, of $845,687 and net
working capital provided of $134,012. The Company made additional capital
contributions of $7,000,000 to the Partnership during 1996. Net cash used in
operating activities and for investments in the Partnership were financed
through the issuance of Common Stock through proceeds from the issuance of
Common Stock from the public secondary offering in February 1996 and exercise of
stock options and warrants. Net cash provided by financing activities was
approximately $15.8 million of which approximately $17.3 was provided from the
issuance of Common Stock which was offset by the cash redemption of Preferred
Stock of approximately $981,000 and cash dividend on Preferred Stock of
approximately $395,000.
Net cash used in operating activities by the Company was $1,297,534 for the year
ended December 31,1995 due to the net loss, before non-cash charges and the
Company's 50% share of the net loss of the Partnership, of $914,170 and net
working capital needs of $383,364 since the Company transferred its desiccant
climate control business to the Partnership in February 1994. The Company was
repaid $1,500,000 (and converted $2,500,000 to a capital contribution to the
Partnership) of the $4,000,000 loan extended to the Partnership to acquire the
Ciba-Geigy manufacturing facility located in Miami in May 1995. The Company made
additional capital contributions of $3,000,000 to the Partnership and supported
a portion of its guarantee of the $8,500,000 industrial development revenue
bonds issued by the Partnership with a $2,500,000 irrevocable letter of credit
collateralized with a certificate of deposit for a like amount. Net cash used in
operating activities and for investments in the Partnership were financed by
issuing Common Stock for net proceeds of $5,761,445 for the year ended December
31, 1995.
The independent accountants' report on the audit of the Company's 1997 financial
statements includes an explanatory paragraph regarding substantial doubt about
the Company's ability to continue as a going concern. The Company's financial
statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, which contemplates the
realization of assets and the satisfaction of liabilities in the normal course
of business. The Company has incurred cumulative losses since inception
amounting to approximately $54 million through December 31, 1997. In order to
continue operations, the Company has had to raise additional capital to offset
cash consumed in operations and support of the Partnership. The Company's
continuation as a going concern is dependent upon its ability to: (i) generate
sufficient cash flows to meet its obligations on a timely basis; (ii) obtain
additional financing or refinancing as may be required; and (iii) ultimately,
attain profitable operations and positive cash flow from its operations and its
investment in Fresh Air Solutions.
22
YEAR 2000
The Company has determined that its systems are Year 2000 compliant and there
are no material costs or consequences to the Company which will arise from the
incomplete or untimely resolution of the Year 2000 issue by vendors or
suppliers. The products sold by the Partnership and Fresh Air Solutions do not
contain date sensitive control systems.
SAFE HARBOR FOR FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
Except for historical matters contained herein, the matters discussed in this
Form 10-K are forward-looking and are made pursuant to the safe harbor
provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Readers are
cautioned that these forward-looking statements reflect numerous assumptions and
involve risks and uncertainties which may affect the Company's and Fresh Air
Solutions' business, financial position and prospects and cause actual results
to differ materially from these forward-looking statements. The assumptions and
risks include sufficient funds to finance working capital and other financing
requirements of the Company and Fresh Air Solutions', market acceptance of Fresh
Air Solutions' products, dependence on proprietary technology, competition in
the air conditioning industry and others set forth in the Company's filings with
the Securities and Exchange Commission.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
The financial statements and supplementary financial data required by this Item
8 are set forth in Item 14 of this Form 10-K Report. All information which has
been omitted is either inapplicable or not required.
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
None.
PART III
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
The required information with respect to each director and executive
officer is contained in the Company's definitive Proxy Statement in connection
with its Annual Meeting to be filed within 120 days of the Registrant's year
ended December 31, 1997 ("1998 Annual Meeting"), which is hereby incorporated by
reference in this Form 10-K Annual Report.
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The required information with respect to executive compensation is
contained in the Company's definitive Proxy Statement in connection with its
1998 Annual Meeting to be filed within 120 days of the Registrant's year ended
December 31, 1997, which is hereby incorporated by reference in this Form 10-K
Annual Report.
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
The required information with respect to security ownership of certain
beneficial owners and management is contained in the Company's definitive Proxy
Statement in connection with its 1998 Annual
23
Meeting to be filed within 120 days of the Registrant's year ended December 31,
1997, which is hereby incorporated by reference in this Form 10-K Annual Report.
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
The required information with respect to certain relationships and
related transactions is contained in the Company's definitive Proxy Statement in
connection with its 1998 Annual Meeting to be filed within 120 days of the
Registrant's year ended December 31, 1997, which is hereby incorporated by
reference in this Form 10-K Annual Report.
24
PART IV
ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES, AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
(a) The following is a list of certain documents filed as a part of
this Form 10-K Report:
(1) Financial Statements of the Registrant.
(I) Report of Independent Accountants
(ii) Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 1997
and 1996.
(iii) Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years
ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
.
(iv) Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders'
Equity (Deficit) for the years ended December 31, 1997,
1996 and 1995.
(v) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years
ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
.
(vii) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
All other schedules specified in Item 8 or Item 14(d) of Form 10-K are omitted
because they are not applicable or not required, or because the required
information is included in the Financial Statements or notes thereto.
(b) Reports on Form 8-K
Restructuring of Engelhard/ICC on February 27, 1998 pursuant to
the Master Agreement dated November 17, 1997
(c) The following table sets forth those exhibits filed pursuant to
Item 601 of Regulation S-K. Exhibits identified with an asterisk
("*") below comprise executive compensation plans and
arrangements:
Exhibit Description
------- -----------
3.1 Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws.
Incorporated by reference from ICC's Form 10
filed on September 16, 1985.
3.2 Amendment to Articles of Incorporation
changing name to ICC Technologies, Inc.
Incorporated by reference from ICC's Form
8-K dated June 12, 1990.
10.1 The Company's Incentive Stock Option Plan,
as amended was filed as Exhibit 4(g) to the
Company's Registration Statement on
Form S-8,
25
No. 33-85636 filed on October 26, 1994 and
is hereby incorporated by reference.
10.2 The Company's Nonqualified Stock Option
Plan, as amended and restated, was filed as
Exhibit C to the Company's Definitive Proxy
Statement dated November 18, 1994 for
Stockholders Meeting held December 15, 1994
and is hereby incorporated by reference.
10.3 ICC Technologies, Inc., Equity Plan for
Directors Incorporated by reference from
ICC's Definitive Proxy Statement dated
November 18, 1994 for Stockholders Meeting
held December 15, 1994.
10.4 Employment Agreement between William A.
Wilson and ICC Technologies, Inc. dated July
2, 1991. Incorporated by reference from
ICC's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the
period ended September 30, 1991.
10.5 Amendment dated February 28, 1994 to
Employment Agreement between William A.
Wilson and ICC Technologies Inc.
incorporated by reference from ICC's Form
10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31,
1994.
10.6 General Partnership Agreement of
Engelhard/ICC ,between Engelhard DT Inc. and
ICC Desiccant Technologies, Inc., dated
February 7, 1994 was filed as an exhibit to
the Company's registration statement filed
on Form S-2 declared effective February 14,
1996 (registration number 33-80223) and is
hereby incorporated by reference.
10.7 Technology License Agreement between
Engelhard Corporation and ICC Technologies,
Inc., and Engelhard/ICC, dated February 7,
1994 was filed as Exhibit 10(j) to the
Company's Form 10-K for the fiscal year
ended December 31, 1993 and is hereby
incorporated by reference.
10.8 Supply Agreement between Engelhard/ICC and
Engelhard Corporation dated February 7,
1994. Incorporated by reference from ICC's
Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended
December 31, 1993.
10.9 Employment Agreement between Irwin L. Gross
and the Partnership dated February 8, 1994.
Incorporated by reference from ICC's Form
10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31,
1993.
10.10 Royalty Agreement between Engelhard/ICC and
James Coellner and Dean Calton dated
February 8, 1994. Incorporated by reference
from ICC's Form 10-K for the fiscal year
ended December 31, 1993.
10.11 License Agreement by and between the
Partnership and Ciba Composites Anaheim, a
business unit of Ciba Composites, a Division
of Ciba-Geigy, dated November 29, 1994, was
filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's 10-Q
for period ended September 30, 1995 and is
hereby incorporated by reference.
26
10.12 Manufacturing and Supply Agreement by and
between the Partnership and Ciba Composites
Anaheim, a business unit of Ciba Composites,
a Division of Ciba-Geigy, dated November 29,
1994, was filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the
Company's 10-Q for period ended September
30, 1995 and is hereby incorporated by
reference.
10.13 Technical Information, Trademark and Patent
License Agreement by and between the
Partnership and Chung-Hsin, dated March 27,
1995, was filed as Exhibit 10.3 to the
Company's 10-Q for period ended September
30, 1995 and is hereby incorporated by
reference.
10.14 Supply Agreement by and between the
Partnership and Chung-Hsin, dated March 27,
1995, was filed as Exhibit 10.4 to the
Company's 10-Q for period ended September
30, 1995 and is hereby incorporated by
reference.
10.15 Agreement by and among Engelhard, the
Company and the Partnership, dated April 1,
1995 relating to the Dade County Industrial
Development Revenue Bonds, was filed as
Exhibit 10.5 to the Company's 10-Q for
period ended September 30, 1995 and is
hereby incorporated by reference.
10.16 Memorandum of Understanding by and between
the Partnership and Samsung, dated June 30,
1995, was filed as Exhibit 10.6 to the
Company's 10-Q for period ended September
30, 1995 and is hereby incorporated by
reference.
10.17 Form of Amendment dated August 9, 1995 to
Agreement of October 6, 1991 regarding
formation of ICC International by and
between the Partnership and AB Air was filed
as Exhibit 10.7 to the Company's 10-Q for
period ended September 30, 1995 and is
hereby incorporated by reference.
10.18 Agreement Regarding Joint Development
Program between the Partnership and AB Air
dated August 21, 1995 was filed as an
exhibit to the Company's registration
statement filed on Form S-2 declared
effective February 14, 1996 (registration
number 33-80223) and is hereby incorporated
by reference.
10.19 Form of Amendment assignment and transfer to
Hexcel all contracts between Engelhard/ICC
and Ciba-Geigy, dated October 19, 1995.
10.20 Asia Pacific Market Development Agreement
between Carrier APO and the Partnership
dated September 12, 1996.
10.21 Agreement of Lease Between 330 South
Warminster Associates, L.P. as Landlord and
Engelhard/ICC as Tenant, including lease
guarantee, dated February 4, 1997.
10.22 Master Agreement dated November 17, 1997,
by and among ICC Technologies, Inc., ICC
Investment, L.P., ICC Desiccant
Technologies,
27
Inc., and Engelhard Corporation, Engelhard
DT, Inc. and Engelhard/ICC was filed as
Exhibit "B" to ICC Technologies, Inc.'s
definitive Proxy Statement dated February 3,
1998 for the Special Meeting of Stockholders
held on February 23, 1998 and is hereby
incorporated by reference.
10.23 Contribution Agreement dated as of November
17, 1997 between Engelhard/ICC and Fresh Air
Solutions, L.P. was filed as Exhibit "C" to
ICC Technologies, Inc.'s definitive Proxy
Statement dated February 3, 1998 for the
Special Meeting of the Stockholders held on
February 23, 1998 and is hereby incorporated
by reference.
10.24 E/ICC Purchase and Sale Agreement dated as
of November 17, 1997 by an among ICC
Investment, L.P., ICC Desiccant
Technologies, Inc. and Engelhard DT, Inc.
10.25 Rotor Supply Agreement dated as of February
27, 1998 by and between Engelhard HexCore,
L.P. and Fresh Air Solutions, L.P.
10.26 Cassette Supply Agreement dated as of
February 27, 1998 by and between Fresh Air
Solutions, L.P. and Engelhard HexCore, L.P.
10.27 Referral Agreement dated as of February 27,
1998 by and between Engelhard HexCore, L.P.
and Fresh Air Solutions, L.P.
10.28 Box Technology License Agreement dated as
of February 27, 1998 by and between Fresh
Air Solutions, L.P. and Engelhard HexCore,
L.P.
10.29 Wheel Technology License Agreement dated as
of February 27, 1998 by and between Fresh
Air Solutions, L.P. and Engelhard HexCore,
L.P.
10.30 E/ICC License Agreement dated as of February
27, 1998 by and between Fresh Air Solutions,
L.P. and Engelhard Corporation.
10.31 Sensor Supply Agreement dated as of February
27, 1998 by and between Fresh Air Solutions,
L.P. and Engelhard Sensor Technologies, Inc.
10.32 Fresh Air Solutions, L.P. Limited
Partnership Agreement dated February, 1998,
between ICC Desiccant Technologies, Inc., as
sole general partner and a limited partner,
and Engelhard DT, Inc., a limited partner.
10.33 Engelhard HexCore, L.P. Limited Partnership
Agreement dated February, 1998, between
Engelhard DT, Inc., as a sole general
partner and a limited partner, and ICC
Desiccant Technologies, Inc., a limited
partner
21 Subsidiaries of ICC Technologies, Inc.
ICC Desiccant Technologies, Inc., a Delaware
Corporation
Fresh Air Solutions L.P., a
Delaware limited partnership
ICC Investment L.P., a Delaware limited
partnership
23 Consent of Coopers & Lybrand L.L.P.,
Independent Accountants
27 Financial Data Schedule
99 Unaudited pro forma consolidated financial
statements of ICC
28
Technologies, Inc as of December 31, 1997
illustrating the effect of the Restructuring
of the Partnership pursuant to the Master
Agreement dated November 17, 1997.
(d) The following is a list of certain documents required by Regulation S-X
consisting of financial statements of the fifty percent owned general
partnership Engelhard/ICC included in this Form 10-K Annual Report:
(1) Financial Statements.
(i) Report of Independent Accountants
(ii) Balance Sheets as of December 31, 1997 and
1996.
(iii) Statements of Operations for the years ended
December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995.
(iv) Statements of Changes in Partners' Capital
for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996
and 1995.
(v) Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended
December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995.
(vii) Notes to Financial Statements.
29
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
The Stockholders of ICC Technologies
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of ICC
Technologies, Inc. (ICC) as of December 31, 1997 and 1996 and the related
consolidated statements of operations, changes in stockholders' equity and cash
flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1997. These
consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of ICC's management.
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial
statements based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present
fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of ICC
Technologies, Inc. as of December 31, 1997 and 1996 and the consolidated results
of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period
ended December 31, 1997 in conformity with generally accepted accounting
principles.
The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared assuming
that ICC will continue as a going concern. As discussed in Note 1, ICC incurred
losses accumulating to $54,184,410 through December 31, 1997. This factor, among
others, raises substantial doubt about ICC's ability to continue as a going
concern. Management's plans in regard to these matters are described in Note 1.
The accompanying consolidated financial statements do not include any
adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.
COOPERS & LYBRAND L.L.P.
2400 Eleven Penn Center
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
March 20, 1998
30
ICC TECHNOLOGIES, INC
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
December 31, December 31,
1997 1996
------------ ------------
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 1,257,483 $ 9,641,114
Prepaid expenses and other 406,558 108,161
----------- ------------
Total current assets 1,664,041 9,749,275
Restricted cash equivalents 2,500,000 2,500,000
Note receivable 350,000 0
Property, equipment and software, net 7,615 1,590
----------- ------------
Total assets $ 4,521,656 $ 12,250,865
=========== ============
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS'EQUITY (DEFICIT)
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable 80,266 $ 22,210
Payable to Engelhard/ICC 17,720 17,035
Accrued liabilities 183,518 48,227
----------- ------------
Total current liabilities 281,504 87,472
----------- ------------
Losses of Engelhard/ICC in excess of investments 7,302,358 2,091,997
----------- ------------
Stockholders' equity (deficit):
Common stock, $.01 par value, authorized 50,000,000 shares,
issued 21,519,998 shares at December 31, 1997 and 21,282,354
shares at December 31, 1996 215,200 212,824
Additional paid-in capital 51,308,904 50,730,330
Note receivable from officer (230,467) 0
Accumulated deficit (54,184,413) (40,700,328)
Less: Treasury common stock, at cost, 66,227 shares (171,430) (171,430)
----------- ------------
Total stockholders' equity (deficit) (3,062,206) 10,071,396
----------- ------------
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity (deficit) $ 4,521,656 $ 12,250,865
=========== ============
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated
financial statements.
31
ICC TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
1997 1996 1995
------------ ------------ ------------
Revenues:
Interest and other income $ 492,870 $ 688,411 $ 362,153
Expenses:
Equity interest in net loss of Engelhard/ICC 11,985,361 6,294,832 5,286,112
General and administrative 1,991,594 1,545,594 1,383,164
Interest 0 2,594 16,250
------------ ------------ ------------
Total expenses 13,976,955 7,843,020 6,685,526
------------ ------------ ------------
Net loss (13,484,085) (7,154,609) (6,323,373)
Cumulative preferred stock
dividend requirements 0 (49,655) (301,413)
------------ ------------ ------------
Net loss applicable to common stockholders $(13,484,085) $ 7,204,264 (6,624,786)
============ ============ ============
Net loss per common share $ (0.63) $ (0.35) $ (0.47)
============ ============ ============
Weighted average common shares 21,339,635 20,322,952 14,072,867
============ ============ ============
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated
financial statements.
32
ICC TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
1997 1996 1995
------------ ------------ ------------
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net loss $(13,484,085) $ (7,154,609) $ (6,323,373)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in
operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization 3,927 1,590 1,591
Equity interest in net loss of Engelhard/ICC 11,985,361 6,294,832 5,286,112
Common stock, stock options and warrants issued for services rendered 52,381 12,500 112,500
Increase in inventory reserve 0 0 9,000
(Increase) decrease in:
Receivables 0 189,640 (36,878)
Inventories 0 0 7,960
Prepaid expenses and other (298,397) 172,349 (464,921)
Increase (decrease) in:
Accounts payable and accrued expenses 194,030 (227,977) 110,475
------------ ------------ ------------
Net cash used in operating activities (1,546,783) (711,675) (1,297,534)
------------ ------------ ------------
Cash flows from investing activities:
Capital contributions to Engelhard/ICC (6,775,000) (7,000,000) (3,000,000)
Issuance of note receivable (350,000) 0 0
Repayment of loan to Engelhard/ICC 0 1,500,000
Purchase of restricted certificate of deposit 0 (2,500,000)
Purchases of property and equipment, net (9,950) 0 (4,771)
------------ ------------ ------------
Net cash used in investing activities (7,134,950) (7,000,000) (4,004,771)
------------ ------------ ------------
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from issuance of common stock and warrants, net 298,102 17,305,194 5,761,445
Cash redemption of preferred stock 0 (981,270) 0
Cash dividend on preferred stock 0 (394,610) 0
Repayments of borrowings from stockholders 0 (150,000) 0
------------ ------------ ------------
Net cash provided by financing activities 298,102 15,779,314 5,761,445
------------ ------------ ------------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents (8,383,631) 8,067,639 459,140
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 9,641,114 1,573,475 1,114,335
------------ ------------ ------------
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 1,257,483 $ 9,641,114 $ 1,573,475
============ ============ ============
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated
financial statements.
33
ICC TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (DEFICIT)
for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
Common Additional Note receivable
Preferred Stock paid-in from
stock ($0.1 par value) capital officer
----------- ---------------- ----------- ---------------
Balance, December 31, 1994 $ 95 $ 122,887 $29,241,534 0
Issuance of 925,000 shares of common stock to redeem
6750 shares of Series F preferred stock (68) 9,250 (9,182) 0
Issuance of 1,151,908 shares of common stock through
exercise of stock options and warrants 0 11,519 2,769,834 0
Issuance of 300,000 shares of common stock through
a private placement, net of offering expenses 0 3,000 3,027,092 0
Issuance of 26,653 shares of common stock for
services rendered 0 267 74,733 0
Net loss 0 0 0 0
----------- --------- ----------- ----------
Balance, December 31, 1995 27 146,923 35,104,011 0
Issuance of 2,686,813 shares of common stock through
a secondary offering, net of offering expenses 0 26,868 16,739,905 0
Issuance of 3,772,045 shares of common stock through
conversion and redemption of the outstanding
preferred stock (27) 37,720 (1,413,573) 0
Issuance of 131,300 shares of common stock through
exercise of stock options and warrants 0 1,313 299,987 0
Net loss 0 0 0 0
----------- --------- ----------- ----------
Balance, December 31, 1996 0 212,824 50,730,330 0
Issuance of 237,644 shares of common stock through
exercise of stock options and warrants 0 2,376 578,574 (230,467)
Net loss 0 0 0 0
----------- --------- ----------- ----------
Balance, December 31, 1997 $ 0 $215,200 $51,308,904 $ (230,467)
=========== ======== =========== ==========
Treasury Total
Accumulated common stock stockholders'
deficit at Cost equity (deficit)
------------- ------------- ----------------
Balance, December 31, 1994 $(27,222,346) $ (171,430) $ 1,970,740
Issuance of 925,000 shares of common stock to redeem
6750 shares of Series F preferred stock 0 0 0
Issuance of 1,151,908 shares of common stock through
exercise of stock options and warrants 0 0 2,781,353
Issuance of 300,000 shares of common stock through
a private placement, net of offering expenses 0 0 3,030,092
Issuance of 26,653 shares of common stock for
services rendered 0 0 75,000
Net loss (6,323,373) 0 (6,323,373)
------------ ------------ ------------
Balance, December 31, 1995 (33,545,719) (171,430) 1,533,812
Issuance of 2,686,813 shares of common stock through
a secondary offering, net of offering expenses 0 0 16,766,773
Issuance of 3,772,045 shares of common stock through
conversion and redemption of the outstanding
preferred stock 0 0 (1,375,880)
Issuance of 131,300 shares of common stock through
exercise of stock options and warrants 0 0 301,300
Net loss (7,154,609) 0 (7,154,609)
------------ ------------ ------------
Balance, December 31, 1996 (40,700,328) (171,430) 10,071,396
Issuance of 237,644 shares of common stock through
exercise of stock options and warrants 0 35O,483
Net loss (13,484,085) 0 (13,484,085)
------------ ------------ ------------
Balance, December 31, 1997 $(54,184,413) $ (171,430) $ (3,062,206)
============ ============ ============
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated
financial statements.
34
ICC TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(1) BUSINESS
Prior to February 27, 1998, ICC Technologies, Inc. (the "Company")
through its partnership with Engelhard Corporation ("Engelhard"),
designed, manufactured and marketed innovative climate control systems
to supplement or replace conventional air conditioning systems. The
Company and Engelhard formed the partnership Engelhard/ICC in February
1994; as a result, the Company had become principally a holding
company, owning a 50% interest in Engelhard/ICC. In February 1998,
Engelhard/ICC was divided into two separate operating partnerships:
Fresh Air Solutions LP ("Fresh Air Solutions") and Engelhard HexCore LP
("Engelhard HexCore"). Fresh Air Solutions designs, manufactures and
markets innovative climate control systems to supplement or replace
conventional air conditioning systems. Engelhard HexCore designs,
manufactures and markets desiccant coated and heat-exchange rotors and
products manufactured from honeycomb substrate. ICC owns 90% of Fresh
Air Solutions and 20% of Engelhard HexCore. Engelhard owns 10% of Fresh
Air Solutions and 80% of Engelhard HexCore. (See Note 12).
Fresh Air Solutions' climate control systems are designed to address
indoor air quality, energy and environmental concerns and regulations
currently affecting the air conditioning market. Fresh Air Solutions
currently markets its systems to certain targeted applications within
the commercial air conditioning market in North America and
Asia-Pacific. Fresh Air Solutions' climate control systems incorporate
proprietary desiccant technology initially developed by the Company,
Engelhard HexCore's licensed honeycomb rotor technology and Engelhard's
patented titanium silicate desiccant, ETS(TM). Fresh Air Solutions'
climate control systems are designed to address indoor air quality,
energy and environmental concerns and regulations currently affecting
the air conditioning market.
The Company believes that the Fresh Air Solutions' climate control
systems create a more comfortable environment, more effectively control
humidity, improve indoor air quality, address certain environmental
concerns and provide customers a choice from a variety of energy
sources such as natural gas, steam, waste heat or electricity.
Going Concern
The accompanying financial statements have been prepared on a going
concern basis, which contemplates the realization of assets and the
satisfaction of liabilities in the normal course of business. Revenues
and the Company's share of results of operations of Engelhard/ICC have
been insufficient to cover costs of operations for the year ended
December 31, 1997. The Company has incurred cumulative losses since
inception of $54,184,410 through December 31, 1997 and has a deficit in
stockholders equity of $3,062,203 at December 31, 1997. As described in
Notes 1 and 12, Engelhard/ICC was restructured ("the Restructuring") on
February 28, 1998 into two partnerships, Fresh Air Solutions which is
90% owned and controlled by the Company, and Engelhard HexCore, which
is owned 20% by the Company. Engelhard/ICC suffered losses totaling $
45,511,093 from its inception in February 1994 until its restructuring
in February 1998. The Company absorbed $26,378,726 of the losses of
Engelhard/ICC. Engelhard/ICC required the support of its partners for
operations to continue. Effective with the Restructuring, the Company
will absorb all of the losses of Fresh Air Solutions and will be
responsible for providing all of its financial support. As described in
Note 12, if the Company had acquired Fresh Air Solutions on January 1,
1997, the unaudited pro forma net loss would have been $17,853,755. The
Company's continuation as a going concern is dependent on its ability
to ultimately attain profitable operations and positive cash flows from
operations. The accompanying financial statements do not include any
adjustments that may result from the Company's inability to continue as
a going concern.
35
The Company's ability to attain profitable operations and positive cash
flows from operations is primarily dependent on increasing sales of
Fresh Air Solutions. The Company and Fresh Air Solutions expect to
achieve increased sales through targeted marketing of its products to
end users, upgrade and increase its manufacturers' representative
network, introduce new commission sales incentive programs, expansion
of the product line with the introduction of single wheel systems,
establish new strategic relationships with domestic and international
manufacturers/distributors of air conditioning equipment and improved
dissemination of product information through web site, trade shows and
newsletters to improve market awareness. The Company and Fresh Air
Solutions expect to improve cash flow by increasing sales, reducing
manufacturing costs through process improvements and product design
changes, and increased unit production and through reducing operating
expenses through reductions in support staff and constraints on
discretionary spending. In connection with the Restructuring, the
Company received approximately $18,600,000 in cash from Engelhard and
obtained a release from restrictions of $2,500,000 in cash, which had
been pledged as collateral for long-term debt of Engelhard/ICC. The
Company expects to use this cash to support the operations of Fresh Air
Solutions and to seek other investment opportunities. The Company
believes that the cash obtained from the Restructuring combined with
its plans to increase sales and reduce costs will permit it to continue
operations for at least the next fiscal year.
The Company is continuing to seek and evaluate acquisition
opportunities related or unrelated to desiccant technology, that would
help broaden its product offerings or permit ICC to enter new areas of
business that demonstrate capabilities of enhancing shareholder value.
Presently, although the Company is exploring the possibility of
pursuing other ventures, to date it has not entered into any binding
agreements to do so ICC may enter any other business it deems
appropriate, whether or not related to Fresh Air Solutions, except that
it may not be a reseller of wheel-shaped rotors acquired from Engelhard
HexCore other than as a component in the production and sale of climate
control systems.
(2) THE PARTNERSHIP
On February 7, 1994, ICC and Engelhard, through their respective
subsidiaries, formed a Pennsylvania general partnership named
Engelhard/ICC (the "Partnership"). In exchange for a 50% interest in
the Partnership, ICC transferred to the Partnership, through ICC's
wholly-owned subsidiary, ICC Desiccant Technologies Inc., substantially
all of its assets, with the exception of cash and certain other assets
not related to the desiccant air conditioning business, subject to
certain liabilities. The assets and liabilities were transferred by the
Company at historical cost with no gain or loss being recorded by the
Company. The investment in the Partnership is accounted for under the
equity method of accounting.
The following are the summarized financial results of the Partnership:
Year ended Year ended Year ended
December 31, December 31, December 31,
1997 1996 1995
------------- -------------- --------------
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS:
Revenues $ 12,239,012 $ 10,504,609 $ 8,944,279
Loss from operations (16,243,629) (12,152,694) (9,862,641)
Net loss $ (16,724,361) $ (12,589,664) $ (10,572,223)
BALANCE SHEET INFORMATION: December 31, December 31,
1997 1996
-------------- ------------
Cash $ 275,717 $ 1,192,997
Receivables 2,135,858 2,640,804
Inventory 3,061,684 4,570,952
Other current assets 79,859 278,762
36
Cash held in escrow 15,010 307,476
Property, plant and equipment 9,496,897 7,990,125
Purchased intangibles, net 866,116 991,883
Other assets, net 830,469 986,232
------------ ------------
Total assets $ 16,761,610 $ 18,959,231
============ ============
Accounts payable and accrued expenses $ 4,768,594 $ 1,885,596
Payable to general partners 0 298,084
Debt 11,448,685 11,456,859
Partners' capital 544,331 5,318,692
------------ ------------
Total liabilities and equity $ 16,761,610 $ 18,959,231
============ ============
In December 1994, the Partnership acquired an existing manufacturing
facility located in 2,923,002, Florida ("Miami Plant"), which produces
the small cell, honeycomb structures that are the base material of the
desiccant and thermal rotors that are an integral part of the
Partnership's products. The former Miami Plant produced primarily large
cell substrate which the Partnership is prohibited to produce or sell
other than to Hexcel Corporation. The Partnership also acquired, as
part of the transaction, an exclusive technology license to use
Hexcel's proprietary process which is necessary to manufacture such
small cell, honeycomb structures.
In May 1995, the Company guaranteed 50% of the Partnership's
indebtedness associated with the issuance of $8,500,000 industrial
development revenue bonds in connection with the acquisition of the
Miami Plant. The Company established an irrevocable letter of credit
for $2,500,000 to support its portion of the guarantee. As a result of
the Restructuring of the Partnership, this guarantee was released in
February 1998 and fully assumed by Engelhard.
During 1997, capital contributions of $6,775,000 were made by the
Company and $5,175,000 were made by Engelhard to the Partnership.
During 1996 and 1995, capital contributions of $7,000,000 and
$3,000,000 to the Partnership were made by each partner, respectively.
The Company's share of losses of the Partnership are $11,985,361,
$6,294,832, and $5,286,112 for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996
and 1995, respectively. The Company's share of the Partnership losses
for 1997 exceeded its proportionate 50% share due to an amendment of
the Partnership Agreement as part of the Restructuring. The Partnership
has incurred cumulative losses of approximately $45,339,000 since
inception. The Company's share of the cumulative losses have resulted
in losses in excess of the Company's investment in the Partnership of
$7,302,358 and $2,091,977 for 1997 and 1996,which has been reflected as
a liability in the balance sheet.
Payables to the Partnership amounted to $17,720 and $17,035 at December
31, 1997 and 1996, respectively. Receivables from the Partnership were
$160,973 and $124,095 at December 31, 1995 and 1994, respectively.
Interest income earned from the Partnership amounted to approximately
$164,000 in 1995. The Partnership provided approximately $78,000,
$95,000 and $83,000 in various administrative office support services
to the Company in 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively.
In order to provide more capacity and combine the corporate office and
manufacturing operations, the Partnership entered into a ten-year lease
commitment which began April 1997, for approximately 140,000 square
feet of office, manufacturing and assembly space. Annual lease
obligation of the Partnership for the new facility for the first
five-years are approximately $500,000 per year. The lease
37
can be terminated after the fifth year. The general partners are
guarantors of the Partnership's lease obligations.
(3) SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES:
Basis of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the financial statements
of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiary, ICC Desiccant
Technologies, Inc. ICC Desiccant Technologies, Inc. owned the Company's
50% interest in the Partnership during 1997, 1996 and 1995. The
Partnership is included in the consolidated financial statements under
equity method of accounting. Following the Restructuring of the
Partnership on February 27, 1998, ICC Desiccant Technologies, Inc. owns
a 90% interest in Fresh Air Solutions which will be included in the
consolidated financial statements of the Company for periods ending on
or after February 27, 1998; in addition, ICC Desiccant Technologies,
Inc. owns a 20% interest in Engelhard HexCore, which will be included
in the consolidated financial statements on the equity method of
accounting for the periods ending on or after February 27, 1998.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
The Company considers all highly liquid investments with an original
maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents for the purpose
of determining cash flows. The carrying amount approximates the fair
value due to the short-term maturity of these instruments.
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment are stated at cost. Costs of major additions and
improvements are capitalized and replacements, maintenance and repairs,
which do not improve or extend the life of the respective assets, are
charged to operations as incurred.
When an asset is sold, retired or otherwise disposed of, the cost of
the property and equipment and the related accumulated depreciation are
removed from the respective accounts, and any resulting gains or losses
are reflected in operations.
Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the
estimated useful lives of three to seven years.
Income Taxes
The Company accounts for income taxes under the asset and liability
method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the
future tax consequences attributable to differences between the
financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities
and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are
measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in
the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be
recovered or settled.
Net Loss Per Common Share
The net loss per common share has been computed in accordance with
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 128, "Earnings
Per Share." Under SFAS No. 128, basic net loss per share is computed
based on the net loss plus preferred dividends divided by the weighted
average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Cumulative
dividends on preferred stock of $49,655 and $301,413 for 1996 and 1995
were added to the net loss to determine the net loss applicable
38
to common stockholders. Diluted net loss per share is computed based on
earnings applicable to common stockholders divided by the weighted
average number of common shares outstanding for the period after giving
effect to securities considered to be dilutive potential common shares
such as: stock options, warrants and convertible preferred stock.
Because the Company incurred losses for all periods presented, the
effect of all dilutive potential common shares is antidilutive.
Consequently, the Company's basic and diluted earnings per share are
the same amounts for all periods presented.
Concentration of Credit Risk
The Company invests its cash primarily in deposits or commercial paper
with major banks or institutions. At times, deposits may be in excess
of federally insured limits. The Company obtains commercial paper
primarily with maturities of 30 days or less and with very high credit
ratings. The Company does not anticipate nonperformance by any of the
counterparties to the financial instruments.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates
and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and
liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the
date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues
and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ
from those estimates.
(4) SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOWS AND EQUITY DISCLOSURE:
Cash paid during the year for interest was $0, $67,985 and $0 in 1997,
1996 and 1995, respectively.
Included in the Statement of Cash Flows for 1997 were cash proceeds of
$298,102 from the issuance of 154,891 shares of Common Stock upon
exercise of stock options and warrants. Excluded from the Statement of
Cash Flows for 1997 was the effect of certain non-cash operating
transactions related to approximately $53,000 of compensation expense
related to the grant to consultants of stock options to purchase
approximately 100,000 shares of Common Stock. Also excluded was the
effect of a non-cash financing transaction related to a $230,467 loan
to the Company's Chairman in connection with the exercise of an option
to acquire 82,753 shares of Common Stock.
Included in the Statement of Cash Flows for 1996 were net cash proceeds
of approximately $16,700,000 from the issuance of 2,686,813 shares of
Common Stock in connection with a secondary offering. In connection
with the offering, all outstanding Preferred Stock was converted into
3,609,696 shares of Common Stock or redeemed in cash for $981,270. In
addition accrued dividends on the Preferred Stock amounting to
approximately $1,044,000 were declared and paid in cash, except for
$649,396 of such dividends associated with the Series H Preferred Stock
that were paid in the form of 162,349 shares of Common Stock in
accordance with the original terms of such series. Also included were
cash proceeds of $301,300 from the issuance of 131,000 shares of Common
Stock upon exercise of stock options and warrants. Excluded from the
Statement of Cash Flows in 1996 were the effects of certain non-cash
financing transactions related to $12,500 of compensation expenses
related to the grant of warrants to purchase 375,000 shares of Common
Stock in connection with the private placement of 300,000 shares of
Common Stock in March 1995.
Included in the Statement of Cash Flows for 1995 were net cash proceeds
of $2,980,092 from the issuance of 300,000 shares of Common Stock. Also
included were cash proceeds of $2,781,353 from the issuance of
1,151,833 shares of Common Stock upon exercise of stock options and
warrants. Excluded from the Statement of Cash Flows in 1995 were the
effects of certain non-cash financing
39
transactions related to: the issuance of 925,000 shares of Common Stock
to redeem 6,750 shares of Series F Preferred Stock; the issuance of
26,653 shares of Common Stock for $75,000 of investor relation services
performed from 1993 through 1995 and $37,500 of compensation expenses
related to the grant of warrants to purchase 375,000 shares of Common
Stock in connection with the private placement of 300,000 shares of
Common Stock in March 1995.
(5) NOTE RECEIVABLE:
The Company loaned $350,000 to a corporation on December 24, 1997 in
connection with an agreement by such corporation to not enter into an
acquisition or merger agreement with any entity other than the Company.
The loan matures on the earlier of five years or the date the
corporation enters into an acquisition agreement with another entity or
obtains significant financing from other sources. The loan bears
interest at the prime rate of 8.5% payable at maturity and is adjusted
to the current prime rate at each annual anniversary date. Subsequent
to December 31, 1997 the Company loaned an additional $1,150,000 to the
corporation on the same terms.
(6) PROPERTY, EQUIPMENT AND SOFTWARE:
Property, equipment and software, net are comprised of the following:
December 31,
--------------------------
1997 1996
----------- -----------
Office, computer equipment and
software $13,766 $3,815
Furniture and fixtures 956 956
----------- -----------
14,772 4,771
Less- Accumulated depreciation
And Amortization (7,107) (3,181)
----------- -----------
$ 7,615 $ 1,590
=========== ===========
(7) ACCRUED LIABILITIES:
Accrued liabilities are comprise of the following:
December 31,
----------------------
1997 1996
--------- ---------
Professional fees $114,500 $23,500
Other 69,015 24,727
--------- ---------
$183,515 $48,227
========= =========
(8) STOCK TRANSACTIONS:
The Company received proceeds of approximately $238,000 from the
exercise of stock options to purchase approximately 125,000 shares of
Common Stock granted under its option plans during 1997. The Company
received proceeds of approximately $60,000 from the exercise of
warrants to purchase approximately 30,000 shares of Common Stock during
1997.
40
The Company loaned $230,467 to its Chairman in July 1997 in connection
with exercise of an option to acquire 82,753 shares of Common Stock.
The loan was in the form of a full recourse note which matures in five
years. Such note bears interest equal to the prime rate, with such rate
adjusted to the current prime rate at each anniversary date.
In February 1996, the Company issued 2,500,000 shares in a secondary
offering at $7 per share less underwriting discounts and commissions of
$.49 per share. Proceeds of $16,275,000 were offset by costs of
approximately $750,000 incurred in connection with the offering. In
connection with the offering, all outstanding Preferred Stock was
converted into 3,609,696 shares of Common Stock or redeemed in cash for
$981,270. In addition, accrued dividends on the Preferred Stock
amounting to approximately $1,044,000 were declared and paid in cash,
except for $649,396 of dividends associated with the Series H Preferred
Stock which were paid in the form of 162,349 shares of Common Stock in
accordance with the original terms of such series. As a result of such
conversion and redemption of Preferred Stock, there are no shares of
Preferred Stock outstanding. In April 1996, the underwriters of the
secondary offering exercised their overallotment option and purchased
186,813 of Common Stock for proceeds of approximately $1.2 million
after underwriting discounts and commissions.
In March 1995, pursuant to a private placement, the Company issued
300,000 shares of Common Stock for gross proceeds of $3,300,000. At
closing, cash of $1,100,000 was received along with a $2,200,000
promissory note. Costs of the offering amounted to approximately
$320,000. In August 1995, the promissory note was paid. In connection
with the private placement, the Company issued warrants to purchase
375,000 shares of Common Stock at $9 per share to the placement agent.
The Company received proceeds of approximately $183,000 from the
exercise of stock options to purchase approximately 106,000 shares of
Common Stock granted under its option plans for 1996. The Company
received proceeds of approximately $119,000 from the exercise of
warrants to purchase approximately 25,000 shares of Common Stock for
1995.
(9) STOCK OPTIONS AND WARRANTS:
The Company provides an incentive and a nonqualified stock option plan
for directors, officers, and key employees of the Company and others.
Under these plans, options may be granted for the purchase of up to
6,850,000 shares of Common Stock. The number of options to be granted
and the option prices are determined by the Stock Option Committee of
the Board of Directors in accordance with the terms of the plans.
Options expire 10 years after the date of grant. Under the terms of the
Incentive Stock Option Plan, the option price cannot be less than 100%
of the fair market value of the Common Stock on the date of the grant.
Incentive stock options are exerciseable based on a vesting schedule
from the grant date. Under the Nonqualified Stock Option Plan, the
option price as determined by the Stock Option Committee may be greater
or less than the fair market value of the Common Stock as of the date
of the grant, and the options are generally exerciseable for three to
five years subsequent to the grant date. The Company had reserved
1,750,000 and 5,100,000 shares of authorized Common Stock for issuance
under the Company's Incentive Stock Option Plan and Nonqualified Stock
Option Plan, respectively.
The Company also authorized in 1994 the Equity Plan For Directors. The
Equity Plan For Directors is a fixed stock option plan whereby vesting
is dependent upon the performance of the market price of the Common
Stock. Under the Equity Plan For Directors, options may be granted for
the purchase of up to 500,000 shares of Common Stock to outside
directors. Under the terms of the Equity Plan For Directors, the option
price cannot be less than 100% of the fair market value of the Common
Stock on the date of the grant.
41
Information with respect to stock options is summarized as follows:
Available for Outstanding Exercisable Weighted Average
Grant Options Options Exercise Price
------------- ----------- ----------- ----------------
BALANCE AT JANUARY 1, 1995 1,910,942 3,811,019 $ 3.39
Granted (21,940) 21,940 $10.37
Canceled 0 0 $ 0
Exercised 0 (909,333) $ 2.16
--------- ---------
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1995 1,889,002 2,923,626 $ 3.83
Exerciseable at December 31, 1995 1,242,885 $ 2.86
===========
Granted (356,000) 356,000 $ 6.23
Canceled 163,000 (163,000) $ 5.65
Exercised 0 (106,300) $ 1.72
--------- --------- ------
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1996 1,696,002 3,010,326 $ 4.09
Exerciseable at December 31, 1996 1,498,173 $ 3.08
===========
Granted (686,998) 686,998 $ 3.04
Canceled 248,200 (248,200) $ 6.58
Exercised 0 (207,644) $ 2.26
--------- --------- ------
BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 1997 1,257,204 3,241,480 $ 3.79
========= =========
Exerciseable at December 31, 1997 1,669,851 $ 3.38
===========
At December 31, 1997, options outstanding based on ranges of exercise
prices are as follows:
Options Outstanding Options Exercisable
------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------
Range of Exercise Number Weighted Weighted-Average Number Weighted-Average
Price Outstanding Average Exercise Price Exercisable Exercise Price
Remaining Life
(Years)
------------- ----------------- ----------------- ------------- ------------------
$1.00-$2.16 949,658 2.92 $1.93 423,658 $1.65
$2.25-$3.25 857,550 4.08 $2.63 687,550 $2.65
$3.63-$5.60 1,123,333 6.89 $5.39 478,333 $5.38
$6.19-$10.75 310,938 8.26 $6.81 85,510 $6.63
--------- ---- ----- --------- -----
3,241,479 5.12 $3.79 1,675,051 $3.38
The Company applies APB Opinion No. 25 and related Interpretations in
accounting for its stock-based compensation plans. Accordingly, no
compensation cost has been recognized for its fixed stock option plans.
Had compensation cost for the Company's stock option plans been
determined consistent with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards
("SFAS") No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based compensation", the
Company's net loss and net loss per share would have been increased to
the pro forma amounts indicated below:
1997 1996
----------- ----------
Net loss: As Reported, $13,484,085 $7,154.609
Pro Forma $13,613,974 $7,351,632
Net loss applicable to common stockholders: As Reported $13,484,085 $7,204,264
Pro Forma $13,613,974 $7,401,287
Net loss per share: As Reported $0.63 $ 0.35
Pro Forma $0.64 $ 0.36
42
The fair value of each option for 1997 and 1996 is estimated on the
date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the
following weighted-average assumptions used for grants: dividend yield
of 0% for all years; expected volatility of 73.9% in 1997 and 69.7% in
1996; risk-free interest rates ranging from 5.4% to 6.5% in 1997 and
5.4% to 7.2% in 1996; and expected lives of approximately 6 years in
1997 and 1996. The weighted average fair value of options on the date
of grant during 1997 and 1996 was $ 1.38 and $3.64, respectively.
The Company had the following Common Stock warrants outstanding at
December 31, 1997, 1996, and 1995, respectively:
Warrants Outstanding
----------------------------
Weighted Average
Number Exercise Price
--------- ----------------
December 31, 1997
-----------------
Consultants 525,000 $9.44
Officers and directors 863,000 $2.70
---------
1,440,000 $5.06
=========
December 31, 1996
-----------------
Consultants 525,000 $9.44
Officers and directors 915,000 $2.66
---------
1,440,000 $5.13
=========
December 31, 1995
-----------------
Consultants 550,000 $9.22
Officers and directors 915,000 $2.66
---------
1,465,000 $5.12
=========
The outstanding warrants are currently exercisable and expire in the
years 2003 and 2004.
(10) 401(k) PROFIT SHARING PLAN:
The Company sponsors for all employees a 401(k) Profit Sharing Plan
("the Plan") which was amended January 1, 1995. Under the Plan, an
employee may elect to contribute on a pre-tax basis to a retirement
account up to 15% of the employee's compensation up to the maximum
annual contributions permitted by the Internal Revenue Code. The
Company matches 50% of each participants contributions up to a maximum
of 4% of the participant's compensation. Each employee is fully vested
at all times with respect to his or her contributions. The Company's
contribution and administration expense aggregated to approximately
$8,000 and $6,000 for each of the years ended December 31, 1997 and
1996 respectively.
(11) INCOME TAXES:
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on differences
between financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities and
are measured using the enacted tax rates and laws that will be in
effect when the differences are expected to reverse. A valuation
allowance has been provided on the net deferred tax assets due to the
uncertainty of realization.
Temporary differences and carryforwards which give rise to deferred tax
assets at December 31 are as follows:
43
1997 1996 1995
------------ ------------ ------------
Net operating loss carryforward $ 17,928,000 $ 12,798,000 $ 10,180,000
Other 10,000 10,000 10,000
------------ ------------ ------------
$17,938,000 $ 12,808,000 $ 10,190,000
Less valuation allowance (17,938,000) (12,808,000) (10,190,000)
------------ ------------ ------------
Total $ 0 $ 0 $ 0
============ ============= ============
The Company has incurred losses since inception. At December 31, 1997
the Company has federal net operating loss carryforwards of
approximately $47 million, which begin to expire in 1999. The
availability and use of losses against future taxable income, if any,
may be limited by Internal Revenue Code Section 382 as a result of
certain changes in ownership that have occurred.
(12) SUBSEQUENT EVENT:
Restructuring of the Partnership
On February 27, 1998, the Company and Engelhard restructured the
Partnership. The Partnership was terminated and the net assets were
divided into two separate operating limited partnerships, one to
manufacture and market complete, active climate control systems under
the name Fresh Air Solutions, LP and the other to manufacture and
market heat-exchange and desiccant coated wheel-shaped rotors that are
components of the climate control systems under the name Engelhard
HexCore, LP. Pursuant to the Restructuring, ICC received approximately
$18,600,000 in cash from Engelhard and assumed 90% ownership and full
control of Fresh Air Solutions. ICC retained a 20% equity interest in
Engelhard HexCore. Fresh Air Solutions will purchase rotors exclusively
from Engelhard HexCore at prices that are lower than the best prices
Engelhard HexCore offers to other customers for such purchases.
Engelhard continues to guarantee the lease on Fresh Air Solutions'
manufacturing facility until 2002 and continues to guarantee up to
$2,000,000 of Fresh Air Solutions' short-term debt. Engelhard's
short-term debt guarantee is reduced to $1,000,000 after one year and
completely terminated after two years. The Company's guarantee of 50%
of the Partnership's $8.5 million indebtedness associated with the
industrial development bonds and the related irrevocable letter of
credit for $2,500,000 was terminated; as a result, $2,500,000 in cash
equivalents previously held as collateral became unrestricted.
Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
The following financial statements set forth the Company's and Fresh
Air Solutions: (i) unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated balance
sheet as of December 31, 1997 in order to demonstrate the effects upon
the Company's historical financial position, as if the Restructuring
occurred on that date; and (ii) unaudited pro forma condensed
consolidated statement of operations for the period ended December 31,
1997 in order to demonstrate the effects upon the Company's historical
results of operations, as if the Restructuring occurred at January 1,
1997.
The unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated financial statements
have been prepared from the historical financial statements of the
Company and the Partnership. The acquisition of Fresh Air Solutions is
accounted for under the purchase method of accounting. The sale of 60%
of the Company's interest in Engelhard HexCore for approximately
$18,600,000 would result in a nonrecurring gain of approximately
$24,900,000 and is not included in the unaudited pro forma condensed
consolidated statement of operations. The pro forma information is not
necessarily indicative of the results that would have occurred in 1997,
or that will occur in the future.
44
The Company and an investment banker were unable to determine the fair
market values of either Fresh Air Solutions or Engelhard HexCore within
reasonable limits. As a result, the nonmonetary considerations paid and
received by the Company were recorded at the historical carrying
amounts reflected in the Partnership's financial statements. At
December 31, 1997, Fresh Air Solutions' liabilities exceeded assets by
$911,723.
Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet
December 31, 1997
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents $ 22,621,486
Accounts receivable 1,043,734
Inventories 2,101,894
Prepaid expenses and other 169,523
------------
Total current assets 25,936,637
Investment in Engelhard HexCore 231,352
Property, equipment and software 2,642,004
Other noncurrent assets 889,827
------------
$ 29,699,820
============
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Short-term loan $ 2,750,000
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 4,588,299
------------
Total current liabilities 7,338,299
Long-term debt 198,685
Stockholders' equity 22,162,836
------------
$ 29,699,820
============
Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations
for the year ended December 31, 1997
Revenues $ 6,415,474
Cost of goods sold 11,661,030
-------------
Gross loss (5,245,556)
Total operating expenses 12,872,478
-------------
Loss from operations (18,118,034)
Equity in loss of Engelhard HexCore (92,328)
Interest income 356,587
=============
Net loss $(17,853,775)
=============
Net loss per common share $ (0.84)
=============
45
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
The Partners of Engelhard/ICC
We have audited the accompanying balance sheets of Engelhard/ICC (Partnership)
as of December 31, 1997 and 1996, and the related statements of operations,
changes in partners' capital and cash flows for the years ended December 31,
1997, 1996 and 1995. These financial statements are the responsibility of the
Partnership's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these
financial statements based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in
all material respects, the financial position of Engelhard/ICC as of December
31, 1997 and 1996, the results of its operations and its cash flows for the
years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995 in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles.
As more fully described in Notes 1 and 15, on February 27, 1998, the Partners
terminated the Partnership and divided its net assets into two separate limited
partnerships.
COOPERS & LYBRAND L.L.P.
2400 Eleven Penn Center
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
March 20, 1998
46
ENGELHARD/ICC
BALANCE SHEETS
December 31, December 31,
1997 1996
------------ ------------
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 275,717 $ 1,192,997
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts
of $444,823 and $39,786, respectively 2,118,138 2,623,769
Accounts receivable - ICC Technologies, Inc. 17,720 17,035
Inventories 3,061,684 4,570,952
Prepaid expenses and other 79,859 278,762
----------- ------------
Total current assets 5,553,118 8,683,515
Property, plant and equipment, net 9,496,897 7,990,125
Cash held in escrow 15,010 307,476
Purchased intangibles, net 866,116 991,883
Other assets, net 830,469 986,232
----------- ------------
Total assets 16,761,610 $189,959,231
=========== ============
LIABILITIES AND PARTNERS' CAPITAL
Current liabilities:
Short-term loan 2,750,000 2,750,000
Current portion of long term debt 69,557 64,529
Accounts Payable:
Trade 965,755 1,404,366
Engelhard Corporation 0 298,084
Accrued liabilities 3,802,839 481,230
----------- -----------
Total current liabilities 7,588,151 4,998,209
----------- -----------
Long-term debt 8,629,128 8,642,330
----------- -----------
Partners' capital 544,331 5,318,692
----------- -----------
Total liabilities and partners' capital $16,761,610 $18,959,231
=========== ===========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
47
ENGELHARD/ACC
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
1997 1996 1995
------------ ------------ ------------
Revenues $ 12,239,012 $ 10,504,609 $ 8,944,279
Cost of goods sold 17,460,782 13,776,459 10,883,995
------------ ------------ ------------
Gross loss (5,221,770) (3,271,850) (1,939,716)
------------ ------------ ------------
Operating expenses:
Marketing 4,105,228 3,563,817 3,412,008
Engineering 2,074,295 1,053,809 936,415
Research and development 901,523 1,055,758 1,133,780
General and administrative 3,940,813 3,207,460 2,440,722
------------ ------------ ------------
Total operating expenses 11,021,859 8,880,844 7,922,925
------------ ------------ ------------
Loss from operations (16,243,629) (12,152,694) (9,862,641)
------------ ------------ ------------
Interest:
Interest income 54,472 94,766 50,679
Interest expense (535,204) (531,736) (760,261)
(480,732) (436,970) (709,582)
------------ ------------ ------------
Net loss $(16,724,361) $(12,589,664) $(10,572,223)
============ ============ ============
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
48
ENGELHARD/ICC
STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN PARTNERS' CAPITAL
for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
Partners' capital, December 31, 1994 $ 3,480,579
Conversion of general partners' loan to partners' capital 5,000,000
Capital contributions 6,000,000
Net loss (10,572,223)
------------
Partners' capital, December 31, 1995 3,908,356
Capital contributions 14,000,000
Net loss (12,589,664)
------------
Partners' capital, December 31, 1996 5,318,692
Capital contributions 11,950,000
Net loss (16,724,361)
------------
Partners' capital, December 3 1, 1997 $ 544,331
============
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
49
ENGELHARD/ICC
STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995
1997 1996 1995
------------ ------------ ------------
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net loss $(16,724,361) $(12,589,664) $(10,572,223)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in
operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization 1,557,739 1,349,057 1,100,898
Provision for doubtful accounts 443,356 40,000 31,104
Provisions for inventory obsolescence and valuation 1,278,040 941,030 600,000
Write-off of equipment and other assets 446,838 23,471 0
Gain on sale of assets (18,000) 0 0
(Increase) decrease in:
Receivables 111,885 (606,349) (1,424,973)
Inventories 231,228 (2,126,857) (1,545,616)
Prepaid expenses and other 198,903 (119,823) (83,103)
Increase (decrease) in:
Accounts payable (457,577) 604,077 (509,281)
Payables to ICC Technologies, Inc. (31,191) (178,008) 36,878
Payables to Engelhard Corporation (298,996) 93,548 141,697
Accrued expenses and other liabilities 3,322,380 127,634 119,368
------------ ------------ ------------
Net cash used in operating activities (9,939,756) (12,441,884) (12,105,25l)
------------ ------------ ------------
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of property, plant and equipment (3,087,444) (928,644) (1,257,464)
Purchases of intangibles (142,371) (346,327) (134,244)
Proceeds from sale of assets 18,000 0 0
Cash held in escrow 292,466 558,268 (865,744)
------------ ------------ ------------
Net cash used in investing activities (2,919,349) (716,703) (2,257,452)
------------ ------------ ------------
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from long-term debt 40,458 57,072 69,956
Repayments of long-term debt (48,633) (51,968) (43,245)
Proceeds from issuance of bonds 0 0 8,500,000
Bond issuance costs 0 0 (215,979)
Capital contributions by general partners 11,950,000 14,000,000 6,000,000
Proceeds from short-term debt 0 0 2,750,000
Repayment of notes payable to general partners 0 0 (3,000,000)
------------ ------------ ------------
Net cash provided by financing activities 11,941,825 14,005,104 14,060,732
------------ ------------ ------------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents (917,280) 846,517 (301,971)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 1,192,997 346,480 648,451
------------ ------------ ------------
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 275,717 $ 1,192,997 $ 346,480
============ ============ ============
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
50
ENGELHARD/ICC
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(1) BUSINESS:
Partnership Operations and Restructuring
Engelhard/ICC (the "Partnership") is a Pennsylvania general
partnership. The Partnership is engaged in the business of designing,
manufacturing and marketing climate control systems to supplement or
replace conventional air conditioning systems. The Partnership
currently markets its systems to certain targeted applications within
the commercial air conditioning market primarily in North America and
Asia-Pacific. On February 7, 1994, ICC Technologies, Inc. ("ICC") and
Engelhard Corporation ("Engelhard"), through their respective
subsidiaries (the "general partners"), formed the Partnership.
On February 27, 1998, ICC and Engelhard restructured the Partnership
(the "Restructuring"). The Partnership was terminated and its net
assets were divided into two separate operating limited partnerships,
one to manufacture and market complete, Active Climate Control Systems
under the name Fresh Air Solutions, LP and the other to manufacture and
market heat-exchange and desiccant coated wheel-shaped rotors, which
are components of the climate control systems, under the name Engelhard
HexCore, LP. ICC has a 90% ownership interest and control of Fresh Air
Solutions, LP. Engelhard retains a 10% interest in Fresh Air Solutions.
Engelhard has an 80% ownership interest and control of Engelhard
HexCore LP. ICC retains a 20% equity interest in Engelhard HexCore, LP.
Fresh Air Solutions will purchase rotors exclusively from Engelhard
HexCore, LP. Engelhard will continue its guarantee of the lease on
Fresh Air Solutions, LP's facility until April 2002 (Note 15) and will
continue to guarantee $2,000,000 of Fresh Air Solutions, LP's debt with
the guarantee being reduced to $1,000,000 after February 1999 and
completely terminated after February 2000. Going forward, the financial
statements of Fresh Air Solutions and Engelhard HexCore will be
consolidated into their majority owners' financial statements, ICC and
Engelhard respectively.
In connection with the Restructuring, Engelhard HexCore and Fresh Air
Solutions entered into a rotor supply agreement whereby Engelhard
HexCore will supply Fresh Air Solutions with its heat-exchange and
desiccant rotor requirements. Fresh Air Solutions will be obligated to
purchase its rotor requirements from Engelhard HexCore. All rotors will
be sold at prices which are lower than the best price Engelhard HexCore
offers to other customers. The rotor supply agreement is for a period
of fifteen years. Furthermore, Engelhard HexCore and Fresh Air
Solutions entered into reciprocal technology license agreements whereby
nonexclusive, royalty free, perpetual license with the further right to
sublicense, technology related to Engelhard HexCore and Fresh Air
Solutions subject to patents or patent applications existing or filed
within one year of the Restructuring. Fresh Air Solutions was also
granted a royalty free license to use "Engelhard" as part of the
"Engelhard/ICC" mark for a thirty month period following the
Restructuring. See note 15 for financial information related to Fresh
Air Solutions and Engelhard HexCore.
(2) SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES:
Basis of Presentation
The financial statements have been prepared on the accrual basis of
accounting and include the accounts of the Partnership for the years
ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995. Subsequent to 1997, the
Partnership was restructured (Note 1 and Note 15) into two separate
limited partnerships.
51
Cash and Cash Equivalents
The Partnership considers all highly liquid investments with an
original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents for
the purpose of determining cash flows. The carrying amount approximates
fair value due to the short-term maturity of these instruments.
Inventories
Inventories are valued at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out) or
market.
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost. Assets under capital
lease are recorded at the present value of the future lease payments.
Costs of major additions and improvements are capitalized and
replacements, maintenance and repairs, which do not improve or extend
the life of the respective assets, are charged to operations as
incurred.
When an asset is sold, retired or otherwise disposed of, the cost of
the property and equipment and the related accumulated depreciation are
removed from the respective accounts, and any resulting gains or losses
are reflected in operations.
Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the
estimated useful lives of the assets. Leased assets under capital
leases are amortized over the period of the lease or the service lives
of the improvements, whichever is shorter, using the straight-line
method.
Purchased Intangible Assets
Purchased intangible assets, consisting primarily of a license
agreement acquired in connection with the acquisition of certain assets
(See note 6), are amortized over ten years using the straight-line
method.
Patents
Patents are amortized over their estimated useful lives, not exceeding
seventeen years, using the straight-line method.
Bond Issuance Costs
Bond issuance costs are deferred and amortized over the life of the
bonds using the straight-line method. Amortization of bond issuance
costs is included in interest expense.
Income Taxes
Partnership income, if any, is taxable to the general partners.
Accordingly, no provision for income taxes has been made by the
Partnership.
Revenue Recognition
Revenues are recognized when equipment is shipped for equipment sales
contracts, and when equipment is installed and operating for
installation contracts. Maintenance service revenue is recognized when
services provided are complete. Processing fees for fabricating raw
materials into substrate are recognized in revenue in the period the
substrate material is shipped.
52
Research and Development Costs
Research and development costs are expensed as incurred. Research and
development costs amounted to approximately $902,000, $953,000 and
$1,134,000 for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996, and 1995,
respectively.
Warranties
The Partnership`s warranty on its equipment is for eighteen months from
date of shipment or one year from date of original installation, except
for desiccant or thermal rotors which are warranted for five years from
the date of shipment. The Partnership records a reserve for the
estimated cost of repairing or replacing any faulty equipment covered
under the Partnership's warranty. During 1997, the Partnership
identified odor creation problems and other quality control issues
related to certain units it manufactured. As a result, management
recorded a provision of $2.2 million related to expenses to be incurred
to address these problems.
Concentration of Credit Risk
The Partnership invests its cash primarily in deposits with major
banks. At times, these deposits may be in excess of federally insured
limits. The Partnership has sold its equipment and services to
end-users in the retail industry, primarily in the continental United
States and Asia-Pacific rim. Concentration of credit risk with respect
to trade receivables is moderate due to the relatively diverse customer
base. At December 31, 1997, the Partnership had trade receivables of
approximately $1,000,124 from one customer. During 1997, revenues from
this customer amounted to approximately $5.8 million, which represents
approximately 48% of the Partnership revenues. Trade receivables from
this customer were current at December 31, 1997. Ongoing credit
evaluations of customers' financial condition are performed and
generally no collateral is required. The Partnership maintains reserves
for potential credit losses and such losses, in the aggregate, have not
exceeded management's expectations. The partnership does not anticipate
non performance by any of the counterparties that have been granted
credit or hold instruments.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates
and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and
liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the
date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues
and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ
from those estimates.
Long-lived Assets
In accordance with the Statement of Financial Accounting Standards SFAS
No. 121, "Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for
Long-Lived Assets to Be Disposed Of," the Partnership reviews
long-lived assets and certain identifiable intangibles for impairment
whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying
amount of the asset may not be recoverable. The Partnership is not
aware of any events or change in circumstances which indicate the
existence of an impairment of assets which would be material to the
Partnership's financial position or results of operatons.
53
(3) INVENTORIES:
Inventories comprise the following:
December 31, December 31,
1997 1996
------------ ------------
Raw materials and purchased parts $ 1,721,311 $ 2,013,913
Work-in-process 1,504,116 1,547,641
Finished goods 309,128 1,591,228
----------- -----------
3,534,555 5,152,782
Less: Allowance for inventory obsolescence (472,871) (581,830)
=========== ===========
$ 3,061,684 $ 4,570,952
=========== ===========
Inventory is net of an allowance for inventory obsolescence of
$472,871, and $581,830 as of December 31, 1997 and 1996, respectively.
The Partnership recorded provisions of $1,278,040 and $941,000 for
inventory obsolescence and valuation which have been included in cost
of goods sold in the statements of operations for 1997 and 1996,
respectively. In 1997 and 1996, the Partnership wrote-off
approximately $1,387,000 and $449,000, respectively, of obsolete
inventory against the allowance for inventory obsolescence.
Raw materials purchased from Engelhard amounted to approximately
$155,000, $272,000 and $86,000 for the years ended December 31, 1997,
1996 and 1995, respectively.
The Partnership designs, manufactures and markets desiccant based
climate control systems which have not yet achieved consistent sales
levels and consistent product mix. The Partnership's products are also
subject to change due to technological improvements. Consequently, the
Partnership may from time to time have inventory levels in excess of
its short-term needs. Items in inventory may become obsolete due to
changes in technology or product design. Management has developed a
program to monitor inventory levels; however, it is possible that a
material loss could ultimately result in the disposal of excess
inventory or due to obsolescence.
(4) PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT:
Property, plant and equipment, net, consist of the following at
December 31:
1997 1996
------------ -----------
Land $ 390,000 $ 390,000
Building 1,805,741 1,779,721
Machinery and equipment 9,740,532 7,607,702
Furniture, fixtures and
leasehold improvements 1,113,589 794,912
----------- -----------
13,049,862 10,572,335
Less- accumulated depreciation (3,552,965) (2,582,210)
----------- -----------
$ 9,496,897 $ 7,990,125
=========== ===========
54
(5) OTHER ASSETS:
Other assets consist of the following at December 31:
1997 1996
---------- ----------
Patents and Trademarks $ 767,478 $ 877,623
Bond Issue Costs 219,483 219,483
Deposits 410 33,854
Other 24,217 2,000
---------- ----------
1,011,588 1,132,960
Accumulated amortization (181,119) (146,728)
---------- ----------
$ 830,469 $ 986,232
========== ==========
(6) ASSET ACQUISITION:
On December 1, 1994, the Partnership acquired for approximately $8.2
million in cash, real property and substantially all other
manufacturing assets of an existing manufacturing facility located in
Miami, Florida from Ciba-Geigy Corporation ("Ciba"), which currently
produces the small cell, honeycomb structures that are the base
material of the desiccant and thermal rotors that are an integral part
of the Partnership's products. The former Ciba plant produced primarily
large cell substrate which the Partnership is prohibited to produce or
sell other than to Ciba. The Partnership also acquired, as part of the
transaction, an exclusive technology license to use Ciba's proprietary
process which is necessary to manufacture such small cell, honeycomb
structures. Assets acquired consisted of approximately: $6.9 million of
Plant, Property and Equipment and $1.3 million of intangibles.
To finance the acquisition, the general partners each lent to the
Partnership $4,000,000 ("General Partners' Loan") bearing interest
payable monthly at the Prime Rate plus 1%. In April 1995, the
Partnership obtained financing from the issuance of $8,500,000 of
industrial development revenue bonds (see note 8). In 1995, the
proceeds of these bonds were used to repay $3,000,000 of the General
Partners' Loan, $1,500,000 to each general partner, and provide for
improvements and capital equipment at the Miami facility.
(7) ACCRUED LIABILITIES:
Accrued liabilities consist of the following at December 31:
1997 1996
---------- --------
Accrued expenses $2,837,272 $168,987
Payroll and employee benefits 748,051 130,301
Commissions 141,251 168,891
Customer deposits 76,265 13,051
---------- --------
$3,802,839 $481,230
========== ========
55
(8) LONG-TERM DEBT:
Long-term debt consists of the following at December 31:
1997 1996
----------- -----------
Industrial development revenue bonds; interest determined weekly and
payable weekly; bonds mature on April 2020, but are subject to
redemption at the option of the Partnership from April 2000 $ 8,500,000 $ 8,500,000
Notes payable due April 2000; interest at 2% per annum;
interest payable monthly; interest and principal payable in
equal monthly installments over 60-month period
commencing April 1995 99,418 138,649
Other 99,267 68,210
----------- -----------
8,698,685 8,706,859
Less- current portion (69,557) (64,529)
----------- -----------
$ 8,629,128 $ 8,642,330
=========== ===========
In connection with the issuance of the industrial revenue bonds (see
note 6), cash of $15,015 is held in escrow pending the Partnership's
incurrence of certain qualified expenditures.
Maturities of long-term debt for each of the next five years are as
follows:
1998 $69,557
1999 64,093
2000 26,024
2001 19,506
2002 19,505
Thereafter 8,500,000
-----------
$ 8,698,685
===========
The general partners are guarantors on the long-term debt.
Substantially all of the assets are pledged as collateral under the
various debt agreements. In addition, Engelhard is the guarantor on the
short-term loan which amounts to $2,750,000 as of December 31, 1997.
The short-term loan is payable on demand with the interest rate
adjusted on a weekly basis. The interest rate at December 31, 1997 was
6.0625%. The interest on the long-term debt is adjusted weekly to
current market rates. The fair value of the Partnership's debt was
determined by reference to quotations available in markets where
similar issues are traded. The estimated fair values of long-term debt
at December 31, 1997 approximates the carrying amount. In connection
with the Restructuring of the Partnership, Engelhard remained as
guarantor of up to $2 million on the short-term debt that was
transferred to Fresh Air Solutions and became sole guarantor on the
$8.5 million industrial revenue bond which was transferred to Engelhard
HexCore.
(9) REVENUES:
Revenues are comprised of the following:
1997 1996 1995
------------ ------------- -----------
Equipment sales $ 6,311,235 $ 6,097,736 $ 2,558,250
Substrate processing 5,823,538 4,302,233 5,801,666
Licensing fees 0 0 500,000
Maintenance and service 104,239 104,640 84,363
------------ ------------ -----------
$ 12,239,012 $ 10,504,609 $ 8,944,279
============ ============ ===========
The Partnership fabricates large cell honeycomb substrate materials at
its Miami facility under a Manufacturing and Supply Agreement with
Hexcel Corporation ("Hexcel"'). Hexcel provides the raw materials to be
fabricated into large cell honeycomb substrate and retains title to the
raw materials,
56
work-in-process and finished goods. The Partnership receives processing
fees for fabricating the raw materials into large cell honeycomb
substrate. Processing fees are recognized in revenues in the period the
fabricated substrate material is shipped. The Manufacturing and Supply
Agreement is for a period of five years. The Partnership is in the
fourth year of performing services under such Agreement. Export sales
of equipment were approximately $1,283.000, $1,457,000, and $643,000 in
1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively.
(10) PARTNERS' CAPITAL:
During 1997, $6,775,000 was contributed by the Company and $5,175,000
by Engelhard. During 1996 and 1995, $7,000,000 and $3,000,000
respectively was contributed by each of the general partners to the
Partnership. In conjunction with the General Partners' Loan of
$8,000,000 and issuance of $8,500,000 of industrial development revenue
bonds (see note 6), $3,000,000 was repaid to each general partner and
the remaining $5,000,000 outstanding balance on the loan was converted
into a capital contribution, $2,500,000 for each general partner in
1995.
(11) RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS:
The Partnership provided approximately $78,000, $95,000, and $83,000 in
various administrative office support services to ICC during the years
ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively. Engelhard
provided approximately $298,000, $504,000, and $351,000 in various
administrative office support services to the Partnership during the
years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively. Engelhard
provided approximately $8,000, $17,000, and $162,000 in research and
development to the Partnership during the years ended December 31,
1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively. ICC provided approximately $78,000,
$47,000 and $72,000 in various administrative office support services
to the Partnership during the year ended December 31, 1997, 1996, and
1995, respectively. The Partnership incurred approximately $328,000
during the year ended December 31, 1995, respectively, of interest
expense to the general partners in connection with the $8,000,000
General Partners' Loan (see note 6). In accordance with the Transfer
Agreement entered into by the general partners, a distribution of
approximately $140,000 was paid to ICC in 1995.
(12) SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW DISCLOSURES:
Excluded from the Statement of Cash Flows for the year ended December
31, 1997 was the write-off of $1,386,999 of inventory and $38,319 of
bad debts.
Excluded from the Statement of Cash Flows for the year ended December
31, 1996 was the write-off of $449,200 of inventory and $40,214 of bad
debts.
Excluded from the Statement of Cash Flows for the year ended December
31, 1995 was the conversion of $5,000,000 of General Partners' Loans to
Partners' Capital and the write-off of $14,283 of bad debts.
Cash paid for interest amounted to approximately $504,000, $516,000 and
$823,000 for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995,
respectively.
(13) 401(K) PROFIT SHARING PLAN:
The Partnership provides a benefit for all employees through a 401(k)
Profit Sharing Plan ("the Plan"). Under the Plan, an employee may elect
to contribute on a pre-tax basis to a retirement account up to 15% of
the employee's compensation up to the maximum annual contributions
permitted by the Internal Revenue Code. The Partnership matches 50% of
each participant's contributions up to a maximum of 4% of the
participant's compensation. Each employee is fully vested at all times
with respect to his or her contributions. The Partnership's
contribution and administration expense was approximately
57
$104,380, $95,000 and $80,000 for the years ended December 31, 1997 and
1996, and 1995, respectively.
(14) LEASE COMMITMENTS:
The Partnership has operating lease commitments for its facilities,
vehicles and certain equipment. In certain instances, these leases
contain purchase and renewal options, both of which are at fair market
value. The Partnership's offices are leased on a month-to-month basis.
The future minimum lease payments for these leases at December 31, 1997
are as follows:
1998 $ 526,440
1999 523,843
2000 521,321
2001 513,918
2002 214,130
Rent expense under these operating leases was $655,551, $469,580, and
$224,634 for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995,
respectively.
In order to provide capacity and consolidate the Philadelphia office
and manufacturing operations, the Partnership entered into a ten-year
lease commitment which began April 1997, for approximately 140,000
square feet of office, manufacturing and assembly space. The lease can
be terminated after the fifth year. The Partnership is responsible for
paying its allocable portion of all real estate taxes, water and sewer
rates, and common expenses. The obligations under the lease agreement
are guaranteed by the general partners, ICC and Engelhard
(15) RESTRUCTURING OF PARTNERSHIP:
As indicated in Note 1, on February 27, 1998, ICC and Engelhard
terminated the Partnership into two limited partnerships, Fresh Air
Solutions, LP and Engelhard HexCore LP. The historical information
related to Fresh Air Solutions and Engelhard HexCore have been
designated as "Box Business" and "Wheel Business", respectively in the
accompanying financial presentations. The following financial
statements of Box business and Wheel business have been prepared from
the historical financial statements of the Partnership and contain
certain adjustments to carve out assets, liabilities, net assets,
revenues, expenses and cash flows between the two businesses.
Balance Sheets
As of December 31, 1997
Box Business Wheel Business Partnership
------------ -------------- -----------
Cash $ 235,432 $ 40,285 $ 275,717
Receivables 1,043,734 1,092,124 2,135,858
Inventory 2,101,894 959,790 3,061,684
Other current assets 62,965 16,894 79,859
Property, plant and
equipment 2,634,389 6,862,508 9,496,897
Cash held in escrow -- 15,010 15,010
Other noncurrent assets 539,827 1,156,758 1,696,585
----------- ----------- -----------
Total assets $ 6,618,241 $10,143,369 $16,761,610
=========== =========== ===========
Current liabilities 4,306,795 461,799 4,768,594
Short-term loan 2,750,000 -- 2,750,000
Long-term loan 198,685 8,500,000 8,698,685
Partners' capital
(deficit) (637,239) 1,181,570 544,331
----------- ----------- -----------
Total liabilities
and capital $ 6,618,241 $10,143,369 $16,761,610
=========== =========== ===========
Statements of Operations
for the year ended
December 31, 1997
Box Business Wheel Business Eliminations Partnership
------------ -------------- ------------ -----------
Revenues $ 6,415,474 $ 6,926,538 $ (1,103,000) $ 12,239,012
Cost of goods sold 11,661,030 6,902,752 (1,103,000) 17,460,782
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Gross profit (loss) (5,245,556) 23,786 -- (5,221,770)
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Operating expenses:
Marketing 4,105,228 4,105,228
Engineering 2,074,295 2,074,295
Research and development 901,523 901,523
General and
administrative 3,799,838 140,975 3,940,813
------------ ------------ ------------
Loss from operations (16,126,440) (117,189) (16,243,629)
------------ ------------ ------------
Interest expense 136,283 344,449 480,732
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Net loss $(16,262,723) $ (461,638) -- $(16,724,361)
============ ============ ============ ============
Condensed Statements of Cash Flows
for the year ended December 31, 1997
Box Business Wheel Business Partnership
------------ -------------- -----------
Cash flows from operation activities:
Net loss $(16,262,723) $ (461,638) $(16,724,361)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss
to net cash (used in) provided by
operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization 692,641 865,098 1,557,739
Provision for doubtful accounts 443,356 -- 443,356
Provisions for inventory obsolescence and
valuation 1,278,040 -- 1,278,040
Write-off of equipment and other assets 364,201 82,637 446,838
Gain on sale of assets -- (18,000) (18,000)
(Increase) decrease in current assets 635,470 (93,454) 542,016
Current liabilities increase (decrease) 2,545,000 (10,384) 2,534,616
------------ ------------ ------------
Net cash (used in) provided by
operating activities (10,304,015) 364,259 (9,939,756)
------------ ------------ ------------
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of property, plant and equipment (2,490,707) (596,737) (3,087,444)
Purchases of intangibles (103,203) (39,168) (142,371)
Proceeds from sale of assets -- 18,000 18,000
------------ ------------ ------------
Cash held in escrow -- 292,466 292,466
------------ ------------ ------------
Net cash used in investing activities (2,593,910) (325,439) (2,919,349)
------------ ------------ ------------
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from long-term debt 40,458 -- 40,458
Repayments of long-term debt (48,633) -- (48,633)
Capital contributions by general partners 11,950,000 -- 11,950,000
------------ ------------ ------------
Net cash provided by financing activities 11,941,825 -- 11,941,825
------------ ------------ ------------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents (956,100) 38,820 (917,280)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 1,191,532 1,465 1,192,997
------------ ------------ ------------
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 235,432 $ 40,285 $ 275,717
============ ============ ============
Balance Sheets
As of December 31, 1996 Box Business Wheel Busisness Partnership
------------ --------------- -----------
Cash $ 1,191,532 $ 1,465 $ 1,192,997
Receivables 2,091,908 548,896 2,640,804
Inventory 3,435,349 1,135,603 4,570,952
Other current assets 265,444 13,318 278,762
Property, plant and equipment 917,593 7,072,532 7,990,125
Cash held in escrow -- 307,476 307,476
Other noncurrent assets 719,550 1,258,565 1,978,115
----------- ----------- -----------
Total assets $ 8,621,376 10,337,855 18,959,231
=========== =========== ===========
Current liabilities 1,989,033 194,647 2,183,680
Short-term loan 2,750,000 -- 2,750,000
Long-term loan 206,859 8,500,000 8,706,859
Partners' capital 3,675,484 1,643,208 5,318,692
----------- ----------- -----------
Total liabilities
and net assets $ 8,621,376 $10,337,855 $18,959,231
=========== =========== ===========
Statements of Operations
for the year ended December 31, 1996
Box Business Wheel Business Eliminations Partnership
------------ -------------- ------------ -----------
Revenues $ 6,202,609 $ 6,032,000 $ (1,730,000) $ 10,504,609
Cost of goods sold 9,190,145 6,316,314 (1,730,000) 13,776,459
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Gross profit (loss) (2,987,536) (284,314) -- (3,271,850)
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Operating expenses:
Marketing 3,563,817 -- 3,563,817
Engineering 1,053,809 -- 1,053,809
Research and development 1,055,758 -- 1,055,758
General and administrative 3,068,859 138,601 3,207,460
------------ ------------ ------------
Loss from operations (11,729,779) (422,915) (12,152,694)
------------ ------------ ------------
Interest expense 98,872 338,098 436,970
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
Net loss $(11,828,651) $ (761,013) -- $(12,589,664)
============ ============ ============ ============
Condensed Statements of Cash Flows
For the year ended December 31, 1996
Box Business Wheel Business Partnership
------------ -------------- -----------
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net loss $(11,828,651) $ (761,013) $(12,589,664)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to
net cash (used in)
Provided by
Operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization 581,092 767,965 1,349,057
Provision for doubtful accounts 40,000 -- 40,000
Provisions for inventory
obsolescence and valuation 941,030 -- 941,030
Write-off of equipment 23,471 -- 23,471
(Increase) decrease in current assets (3,038,921) 185,892 (2,853,029)
Increase (decrease) in current liabilities 641,348 5,903 647,251
------------ ------------ ------------
Net cash (used in) provided by
operating activities (12,640,631) 198,747 (12,441,884)
Cash flows from investing activities: (211,189) (717,455) (928,644)
Purchases of property, plant and equipment (305,799) (40,528) (346,327)
Purchases of intangibles -- 558,268 558,268
------------ ------------ ------------
Cash held in escrow (516,988) (199,715) (716,703)
Net cash used in investing activities
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from long-term debt 57,072 -- 57,072
Repayments of long-term debt (51,968) -- (51,968)
Capital contributions by general partners 14,000,000 -- 14,000,000
---------- ------------ ------------
Net cash provided by financing activities 14,005,104 -- 14,005,104
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 847,485 (968) 846,517
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 344,047 2,433 346,480
------------ ------------ ------------
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 1,191,532 $ 1,465 $ 1,192,997
============ ============ ============
Statements of Operation
for the year December 31, 1995
Box Business Wheel Business Elimination Partnership
------------ -------------- ----------- -----------
Revenues $ 3,142,613 $ 6,768,666 (967,000) $ 8,944,279
Cost of goods sold 5,190,059 6,660,936 (967,000) 10,883,995
------------ ------------ --------- ------------
Gross profit (loss) (2,047,446) 107,730 -- (1,939,716)
------------ ------------ --------- ------------
Operating expenses:
Marketing 3,412,008 3,412,008
Engineering 936,415 936,415
Research and development 1,133,780 1,133,780
General and
administrative 2,305,888 134,834 2,440,722
------------ ------------ ------------
Loss from operations (9,835,537) (27,104) (9,862,641)
Interest expense 438,447 271,135 709,582
------------ ------------ --------- ------------
Net loss $(10,273,984) $ (298,239) $(10,572,223)
============ ============ ========= ============
Statements of Cash Flows
for the year ended December 31, 1995
Cash flows from operating activities: Box Business Wheel Business Partnership
------------ -------------- -----------
Net loss $(10,273,984) $ (298,239) $(10,572,223)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash
used in
Operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization 401,851 699,047 1,100,898
Provision for doubtful accounts 31,104 -- 31,104
Provisions for inventory obsolescence and
valuation 600,000 -- 600,000
(Increase) decrease in current assets (758,389) (2,295,303) (3,053,692)
Current liabilities increase (decrease) (405,374) 194,036 (211,338)
------------ ------------ ------------
Net cash used in operating
activities (10,404,792) (1,700,459) (12,105,251)
Cash flows from investing activities
Purchases of property, plant and equipment (572,097) (685,367) (1,257,464)
Purchases of intangibles (102,544) (31,700) (134,244)
Cash held in escrow -- (865,744) (865,744)
------------ ------------ ------------
Net cash used in investing
activities (674,641) (1,582,811) (2,257,452)
------------ ------------ ------------
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from long-term debt 69,956 -- 69,956
Repayments of long-term debt (43,245) -- (43,245)
Proceeds from issuance of bonds -- 8,500,000 8,500,000
Transfer of bond proceeds between businesses 5,000,000 (5,000,000) --
Bond issuance costs (215,979) (215,979)
Capital contributions by general partners 6,000,000 -- 6,000,000
Proceeds from short-term debt 2,750,000 -- 2,750,000
Repayment of notes payable to general partner (3,000,000) -- (3,000,000)
------------ ------------ ------------
Net cash provided by financing
activities 10,776,711 3,284,021 14,060,732
------------ ------------ ------------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents (302,722) 751 (301,971)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 646,769 1,682 648,451
------------ ------------ ------------
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 344,047 $ 2,433 $ 346,480
============ ============ ============
58
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its
behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
(Registrant): ICC Technologies, Inc.
------------------------------
By: /s/ William A. Wilson
---------------------------------
(Signature)
Name and Title: William A. Wilson, President and Chief Executive Officer
--------------------------------------------------------
Date: March 31, 1998
--------------------
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report
has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and
in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
SIGNATURE CAPACITY DATE
- --------- -------- ----
/s/ Irwin L. Gross Chairman of the Board March 31, 1998
- ------------------------------------
Irwin L. Gross
/s/ William A. Wilson President and Chief March 31, 1998
- ------------------------------------ Executive Officer and Director
William A. Wilson
/s/ Manfred Hanuschek Chief Financial Officer March 31, 1998
- ------------------------------------
Manfred Hanuschek
/s/ Albert Resnick Director and Secretary March 31, 1998
- ------------------------------------
Albert Resnick
/s/ Andrew L. Shapiro Director March 31, 1998
- ------------------------------------
Andrew L. Shapiro
/s/ Stephen Schachman Director March 31, 1998
- ------------------------------------
Stephen Schachman
/s/ Mark Hauser Director March 31, 1998
- ------------------------------------
Mark Hauser
/s/ Charles Condy Director March 31, 1998
- ------------------------------------
Charles Condy
/s/ Robert Aders Director March 31, 1998
- ------------------------------------
Robert Aders
62