1 EXHIBIT 13 DETREX CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES 1997 ANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS 2 ------------------------------------------ DETREX CORPORATION 1997 ANNUAL REPORT ------------------------------------------ 3 HIGHLIGHTS(1) 1997 1996 1995 ----------- ----------- ----------- Net sales..................................... $95,757,000 $96,825,000 $94,302,000 Net income (loss)............................. 1,513,000 415,000 (1,869,000) Income (loss) per common share -- basic....... .96 .26 (1.18) Stockholders' equity per common share......... 11.89 10.93 10.67 Additions to land, buildings and equipment (including capital leases).................. 5,360,000 2,770,000 2,662,000 Current ratio................................. 1.4 to 1 1.4 to 1 1.3 to 1 Number of stockholders........................ 441 387 425 Number of employees........................... 353 345 347 (1) This information should be considered in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and Management's Discussion and Analysis. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DETREX GROUP OF COMPANIES(1) -- Detrex Corporation -- a specialty chemicals company - Solvents and Environmental Services Division -- distributes and recycles parts cleaning solvents and disposes of industrial wastes - Equipment Division -- designs, engineers and sells industrial parts cleaning equipment - Automation Division -- engineers and sells automation and material handling equipment - RTI Laboratories -- provides analytical and environmental laboratory services -- Subsidiaries of Detrex Corporation - Harvel Plastics, Inc. -- manufactures PVC and CPVC pipe and custom extrusions - The Elco Corporation -- produces petroleum additives, pharmaceutical intermediates, and hydrochloric acid - Seibert-Oxidermo, Inc. -- produces industrial and automotive paint and other coatings (1) For more information about the products of Detrex and its subsidiaries, see page 16 of this Annual Report or visit our Web Site at http://www.detrex.com 4 TO OUR SHAREHOLDERS: We are pleased to report that your company achieved earnings of $1.5 million in 1997. This marks Detrex's second consecutive year of earnings improvement and represents a significant increase over last year's earnings of $415,000. The dedication and enthusiasm of the Detrex team generated profitable results in all business units and a strong 1997 fourth quarter performance has brought our consecutive string of profitable quarters to eight. As we enter 1998, the turnaround continues with our focus shifting to creating and sustaining long-term profitable growth for your company. Net sales in 1997 reflect a $3.5 million revenue increase which replaced nearly all of the $4.6 million sales revenue associated with the industrial furnace division which was sold in 1996. Our plastic pipe subsidiary, Harvel Plastics, Inc., was the main contributor to the revenue growth. Harvel generated solid bottom-line performance by capitalizing on the demand for high quality PVC and CPVC products. The Elco Corporation also made an important contribution to our profitability and responded effectively to customer demand and changing market conditions. Cost reductions in the Solvents and Environmental Services Division yielded much needed improvements, with the business returning to profitability after two years of losses. Its sister division, the Equipment Division, improved upon last year's profitable performance with enhanced business processes and controls. Seibert-Oxidermo, Inc., our paint subsidiary, achieved QS-9000 certification, introduced several new custom products, and generated a profit in a highly competitive market. The Automation Division successfully executed six major orders in its first year as a stand-alone unit, and RTI Laboratories effectively accommodated on-going changes in the analytical testing field. Cash flow from operations enabled Detrex to fund $4.7 million in capital expenditures internally in 1997. In addition, working capital has improved to $9.3 million as of December 31, 1997. We are projecting capital expenditures of nearly $8.5 million for 1998, including almost $4.0 million for the expansion of Harvel's operations on the West Coast, as well as several other investments for growth. Our capital expenditures will be financed primarily through internally generated funds and industrial development bonds. The Harvel expansion, slated for 1998, should provide your company an outstanding platform to expand its geographical presence and distribution in the western region of the United States. By reducing transportation costs and improving order turnaround time, a new manufacturing and distribution facility will enhance Harvel's ability to ship product to Pacific Rim countries, as well as to customers on the West Coast. We believe this new facility should provide an outstanding growth opportunity for both Harvel and Detrex. Our Elco subsidiary is working on products and market opportunities with strong potential for growth as well. The new plant in Ashtabula has been launched and will provide much needed additional capacity in 1998. We are currently developing new products, including an extremely high-purity hydrochloric acid. In addition, we are enhancing our facilities and capabilities for manufacturing of fine chemicals including pharmaceutical intermediates for use in a broad range of products. During 1997, we accelerated the recovery that began in 1996 and further stabilized Detrex. Our goal for the new year is to continue building shareholder value through growth and continuing improvements in plant, equipment, people and processes. We thank our shareholders and the entire Detrex family for their continued backing and support and look forward to continued progress. Thomas E. Mark William C. King President and Chief Operating Officer Chairman and Chief Executive Officer 1 5 --------------- INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT--------------- ------------------------------------ Suite 900 600 Renaissance Center Deloitte & Touche LLP Letterhead Detroit, Michigan 48243-1704 To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of Detrex Corporation We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Detrex Corporation and its subsidiaries as of December 31, 1997 and 1996 and the related consolidated statements of operations and retained earnings and of cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1997. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Detrex Corporation and its subsidiaries at December 31, 1997 and 1996 and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1997 in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP February 25, 1998 Deloitte & Touche Logo 2 6 DETREX CORPORATION CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND RETAINED EARNINGS FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31 1997 1996 1995 ----------- ----------- ----------- NET SALES................................................... $95,756,801 $96,825,436 $94,301,999 Cost of sales............................................... 71,356,262 74,147,179 73,062,297 Selling, general and administrative expenses................ 17,816,042 18,923,660 20,027,863 Provision for depreciation and amortization................. 3,242,789 3,188,758 3,393,721 Net environmental (income) expense.......................... -- (100,000) 100,039 Other (income) expense -- net............................... 293,961 (571,118) (689,350) Minority interest........................................... 314,912 280,014 242,110 Interest expense............................................ 723,893 919,947 886,106 Gain on sale of Pacific Industrial Furnace Division......... -- (368,985) -- ----------- ----------- ----------- INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE INCOME TAXES........................... 2,008,942 405,981 (2,720,787) Provision (Credit) for income taxes......................... 495,839 (9,387) (851,484) ----------- ----------- ----------- NET INCOME (LOSS)........................................... 1,513,103 415,368 (1,869,303) RETAINED EARNINGS AT BEGINNING OF YEAR...................... 14,119,822 13,704,454 15,573,757 ----------- ----------- ----------- RETAINED EARNINGS AT END OF YEAR............................ $15,632,925 $14,119,822 $13,704,454 =========== =========== =========== NET INCOME (LOSS) PER COMMON SHARE: Basic....................................................... $.96 $.26 $(1.18) =========== =========== =========== Diluted..................................................... $.94 $.26 $(1.18) =========== =========== =========== WEIGHTED AVERAGE SHARES OUTSTANDING: Basic....................................................... 1,583,414 1,583,414 1,583,414 Effects of Dilutive Stock Options........................... 28,056 11,222 -- ----------- ----------- ----------- Diluted..................................................... 1,611,470 1,594,636 1,583,414 =========== =========== =========== See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. 3 7 DETREX CORPORATION CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS DECEMBER 31 ASSETS 1997 1996 ----------- ----------- CURRENT ASSETS: Cash and cash equivalents................................... $ 398,093 $ 1,311,045 Accounts receivable (less allowance for uncollectible accounts of $372,000 in 1997 and $395,000 in 1996)........ 16,296,172 15,203,184 Note receivable............................................. -- 1,562,665 Refundable U.S. income taxes................................ -- 1,003,827 Inventories................................................. 9,742,109 9,058,167 Land and building held for sale............................. 1,425,000 -- Prepaid expenses and other.................................. 692,543 878,263 Deferred income taxes....................................... 1,349,842 759,063 ----------- ----------- TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS................................. 29,903,759 29,776,214 LAND, BUILDINGS AND EQUIPMENT: Land........................................................ 993,602 993,602 Buildings and improvements.................................. 16,555,248 15,938,390 Machinery and equipment..................................... 31,298,526 29,539,130 Construction in progress.................................... 2,541,084 819,122 ----------- ----------- 51,388,460 47,290,244 Less allowance for depreciation and amortization............ 30,040,031 27,916,193 ----------- ----------- LAND, BUILDINGS AND EQUIPMENT -- NET................. 21,348,429 19,374,051 LAND, BUILDING AND EQUIPMENT HELD FOR SALE.................. 1,350,239 2,820,125 PREPAID PENSIONS............................................ 1,338,951 1,280,886 DEFERRED INCOME TAXES....................................... 693,406 1,367,265 OTHER ASSETS................................................ 935,978 973,858 ----------- ----------- $55,570,762 $55,592,399 =========== =========== See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. 4 8 LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY 1997 1996 ----------- ----------- CURRENT LIABILITIES: Loans payable............................................... $ 5,699,836 $ 5,627,453 Current maturities of capital lease obligations............. 303,464 385,366 Accounts payable............................................ 9,843,411 11,123,341 Environmental reserve....................................... 1,485,000 1,027,000 Accrued compensation........................................ 1,184,740 699,520 Other accruals.............................................. 2,113,776 2,398,802 ----------- ----------- TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES............................ 20,630,227 21,261,482 LONG-TERM PORTION OF CAPITAL LEASE OBLIGATIONS.............. 569,396 393,800 ACCRUED POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS............................. 4,488,982 4,293,584 ENVIRONMENTAL RESERVE....................................... 8,090,952 9,244,297 ACCRUED PENSION AND OTHER................................... 1,028,285 1,344,330 MINORITY INTEREST........................................... 1,941,147 1,746,236 STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY: Common capital stock, $2 par value, authorized 4,000,000 shares, outstanding 1,583,414 shares.............................. 3,166,828 3,166,828 Additional paid-in capital.................................. 22,020 22,020 Retained earnings........................................... 15,632,925 14,119,822 ----------- ----------- TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY........................... 18,821,773 17,308,670 ----------- ----------- $55,570,762 $55,592,399 =========== =========== See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. 5 9 DETREX CORPORATION CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31 1997 1996 1995 ----------- ----------- ----------- CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: Net Income (Loss)....................................... $ 1,513,103 $ 415,368 $(1,869,303) ----------- ----------- ----------- Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities: Depreciation and amortization...................... 3,242,789 3,188,758 3,393,721 (Gain) Loss on sale or write-off of buildings, machinery and equipment........................ 42,255 107,488 (189,066) Deferred income taxes.............................. 83,080 1,277,731 2,721,155 Changes to operating assets and liabilities that provided (used) cash: Accounts receivable.............................. (1,092,988) (1,247,167) 4,103,160 Note receivable.................................. 1,562,665 (1,562,665) -- Refundable U.S. income taxes..................... 1,003,827 2,036,945 (3,040,772) Inventories...................................... (683,942) (620,662) 509,579 Prepaid expenses and other....................... 185,720 46,018 (248,742) Other assets..................................... (34,177) 20,761 (133,535) Accounts payable................................. (1,279,930) 2,115,738 (2,757,588) Environmental reserve............................ (695,345) 63,098 (2,382,738) Accrued compensation............................. 485,220 56,431 (179,561) Postretirement benefits.......................... 195,398 307,699 349,569 Other accruals................................... (406,160) (1,806,234) 1,148,045 ----------- ----------- ----------- TOTAL ADJUSTMENTS.............................. 2,608,412 3,983,939 3,293,227 ----------- ----------- ----------- NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES...... 4,121,515 4,399,307 1,423,924 ----------- ----------- ----------- CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: Capital expenditures.................................... (4,710,327) (2,324,663) (2,095,379) Proceeds from disposal of machinery and equipment....... 2,125 1,615 235,321 ----------- ----------- ----------- NET CASH USED IN INVESTING ACTIVITIES.......... (4,708,202) (2,323,048) (1,860,058) ----------- ----------- ----------- CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: Bank borrowings......................................... -- -- 3,000,000 Repayment of long-term debt............................. -- -- (1,000,000) Borrowing (repayment) of short-term debt -- net......... 72,383 (2,872,547) -- Principal payments under capital lease obligations...... (398,648) (657,027) (815,468) ----------- ----------- ----------- NET CASH PROVIDED BY (USED IN) FINANCING ACTIVITIES................................ (326,265) (3,529,574) 1,184,532 ----------- ----------- ----------- Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents........ (912,952) (1,453,315) 748,398 Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year.............. 1,311,045 2,764,360 2,015,962 ----------- ----------- ----------- Cash and cash equivalents at end of year.................... $ 398,093 $ 1,311,045 $ 2,764,360 =========== =========== =========== SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION: Cash paid during the year for: Interest........................................... $ 797,756 $ 1,023,564 $ 771,564 Income taxes....................................... $ 205,472 $ 223,044 $ 284,579 SUPPLEMENTAL SCHEDULE OF NONCASH INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES: Capital lease obligations incurred in connection with the acquisition of equipment........................... $ 649,665 $ 445,649 $ 566,628 Capital lease terminations.............................. $ 440,149 $ 152,931 $ 175,708 Sale of PIFCO........................................... $ -- $ 1,562,665 -- See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. 6 10 DETREX CORPORATION NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 1. NATURE OF OPERATIONS AND CUSTOMER CONCENTRATION Detrex Corporation and its subsidiaries operate predominantly in a single industry: chemicals and allied products, services, and processes for use by manufacturing and service industries. The principal products include specialty chemicals, lubricant additives, pharmaceutical intermediates, cleaning solvents, hydrochloric acid, PVC and CPVC plastic pipe, industrial finishing materials and paints, automation equipment, degreasing equipment, and environmental and analytical laboratory services. The products are primarily sold by sales-service engineers and most sales are direct to industrial users. All of the Company's business units operate in highly competitive markets which are mainly national in scope, although approximately 12% of the Company's business in 1996 and 1997 is done internationally, principally by its lubricants subsidiary and its plastic pipe subsidiary. Generally, for all products there are numerous competitors with no one company or a small number of companies being dominant. The Company operates in niche markets and its principal methods of competition in various markets include service, price and quality, depending on the market serviced. No material part of the business is dependent upon a single customer or a few customers and therefore vulnerability from this aspect is not a factor. However, certain of the Company's business units sell primarily to automotive or automotive related companies. 2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES Basis of Financial Statements The consolidated financial statements comprise those of the Company and its subsidiaries. All balances and transactions between the companies have been eliminated. Certain amounts for 1995 and 1996 have been reclassified to conform with 1997 classifications. Inventories and Accounts Receivable Inventories are stated at lower of cost or market. Cost of raw materials, including raw materials in work in process and finished goods inventories, generally is determined by using the last-in, first-out method. Labor and burden in inventory are determined by using the average cost method. Inventories relating to equipment contracts are stated at the accumulated cost of material, labor and burden less related progress billings. Revenue from the Company's equipment contracts is recognized using the percentage-of-completion method except when use of the completed contract method does not have a material impact on the results of operations. For sales reported under the percentage of completion method, the percent of revenues is recognized based on the ratio of costs incurred to date to total costs expected for each project. Revenue recognized for jobs in process at December 31, 1997 totals $1,454,000 and costs incurred on these contracts amounts to $1,071,000. Included in accounts receivable is $947,310 that has not been billed to customers. Land, Buildings and Equipment Land, buildings and equipment are stated at cost. Depreciation and amortization are provided over the estimated useful lives of the assets using the straight-line method for financial reporting purposes. Leased equipment is amortized over the lease term or estimated useful life of the asset. Annual depreciation rates are as follows: Buildings................................ 2.5-20% Leasehold improvements................... 2.5-20% Yard facilities.......................... 5-6 2/3% Machinery and equipment.................. 6 2/3-33 1/3% Office furniture and fixtures............ 10-25% Research and Development Research and development costs are charged to operations as incurred. Research and development costs for 1997, 1996 and 1995 were approximately $1,365,000, $1,114,000, and $1,272,000, respectively. Earnings (Loss) Per Common Share Basic earnings (loss) per common share is based upon the average number of common shares outstanding during the year. Shares subject to in-the-money stock options are the only items impacting diluted earnings per share. Cash Flows For purposes of the consolidated statements of cash flows, cash equivalents are defined as short-term highly-liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less at date of purchase. Fair Value of Financial Instruments The carrying values of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, notes receivable, accounts payable, and debt under the Revolving Credit Agreement approximated fair values. 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 as of the balance sheet date 7 11 and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. 3. INVENTORIES Inventories at December 31 consist of the following: 1997 1996 ---------- ----------- Raw materials............... $3,390,407 $ 3,005,399 Work in progress............ 359,819 1,785,310 Finished goods.............. 5,996,243 5,768,376 Less: Progress billings on work in progress.......... (4,360) (1,500,918) ---------- ----------- $9,742,109 $ 9,058,167 ========== =========== The excess of current cost over the stated last-in, first-out value is approximately $1,345,000 and $1,635,000 at December 31, 1997 and 1996. 4. CAPITAL AND OPERATING LEASES Capitalized lease assets included in machinery and equipment at December 31 are as follows: 1997 1996 ---------- ---------- Machinery and equipment...... $1,420,319 $2,140,025 Accumulated amortization..... 611,394 1,151,240 ---------- ---------- Leased assets -- net......... $ 808,925 $ 988,785 ========== ========== Rent expense applicable to operating leases for 1997, 1996 and 1995 was $591,000, $565,000 and $569,000, respectively. Minimum annual lease payments for leases in effect at December 31, 1997 are as follows: Minimum Lease Payments: Capital Operating ---------- ---------- 1998.................... $ 413,017 $ 463,565 1999.................... 314,188 306,028 2000.................... 212,537 128,181 2001.................... 127,614 64,186 2002.................... 56,654 60,607 2003 and thereafter..... -- 75,000 ---------- ---------- Total minimum lease payments................... 1,124,010 $1,097,567 ========== Less amount representing interest................... 251,150 ---------- Present value of net minimum lease payments............. 872,860 Less current portion......... 303,464 ---------- Non-current portion.......... $ 569,396 ========== 5. REVOLVING CREDIT AGREEMENT AND TERM LOAN The Company finalized a new Credit Agreement (the Agreement) with Comerica Bank on June 13, 1996. The Agreement provides for a credit facility of up to $12.0 million, collateralized by the Company's inventory, accounts receivable, certain fixed assets, and stock of subsidiaries. The Agreement contains, among other provisions, requirements for maintaining defined levels of tangible net worth and various financial statement ratios. Interest under the Agreement is based on the prime interest rate. The Company has received a commitment from Comerica Bank to extend the current facility to at least one year beyond the current May 1, 1998 expiration date. The current Agreement also provides for a $2.0 million Term Loan facility. The weighted average interest rate for short term borrowings under the Agreement for the year ended December 31, 1997 was 9.92%, compared to 10.07% for the year ended December 31, 1996 and 8.10% for the year ended December 31, 1995. 6. INCOME TAXES The income taxes, calculated in accordance with SFAS No. 109 for 1997, 1996 and 1995, included the following components: 1997 1996 1995 --------- ----------- ----------- Current for tax purposes: Federal.................... $ 42,032 $(1,146,060) $(4,318,066) State and local............ 194,559 74,381 278,427 --------- ----------- ----------- Total Current............ 236,591 (1,071,679) (4,039,639) --------- ----------- ----------- Deferred income taxes: Federal.................... 723,261 948,152 2,609,310 Valuation allowance........ (467,000) -- 467,000 State and local............ 2,987 114,140 111,845 --------- ----------- ----------- Total Deferred........... 259,248 1,062,292 3,188,155 --------- ----------- ----------- Provision (Credit) for income taxes...................... $ 495,839 $ (9,387) $ (851,484) ========= =========== =========== Deferred tax assets (liabilities) at December 31, 1997 and 1996 relate to the following temporary differences and carryforwards: 1997 1996 ----------- ----------- Net operating loss carryforward.......... $ 244,815 $ 1,049,617 Alternative minimum tax credit carryforward........................... 425,176 383,144 Accruals for: Postretirement benefits................ 1,718,831 1,644,013 Environmental.......................... 3,666,633 3,932,879 Restructuring.......................... 41,463 43,268 Self insurance reserve................. 150,097 187,621 Inventory related........................ 429,790 460,635 Other.................................... 184,367 225,875 ----------- ----------- Gross deferred tax assets............ 6,861,172 7,927,052 ----------- ----------- Valuation allowance...................... -- (467,000) ----------- ----------- Depreciation............................. (3,021,329) (2,919,663) Undistributed earnings of the Company's DISC................................... (1,484,017) (1,484,017) Insurance Refund......................... -- (344,610) Other.................................... (312,578) (585,434) ----------- ----------- Gross deferred tax liabilities....... (4,817,924) (5,333,724) ----------- ----------- Net deferred tax assets.............. $ 2,043,248 $ 2,126,328 =========== =========== The Company has a net operating loss carryforward of $720,044 that expires in 2010. 8 12 The reasons for the difference between the income tax provision and income taxes computed at 34% for 1997, 1996 and 1995 are summarized below: 1997 1996 1995 --------- --------- --------- Computed 'expected' tax provision..................... $ 683,040 $ 138,034 $(925,068) State and local income taxes, net of federal tax benefit.... 130,380 124,424 257,580 Nondeductible meal and entertainment expense......... 68,655 63,504 57,324 Tax refund carryback tax rate differential.................. -- (364,319) (791,805) Deferred tax asset valuation allowance..................... (467,000) -- 467,000 Other -- net.................... 80,764 28,970 83,485 --------- --------- --------- $ 495,839 $ (9,387) $(851,484) ========= ========= ========= In 1995, the Company established a valuation allowance of $467,000 against its deferred tax assets. The Company returned this reserve to income in 1997. 7. LAND, BUILDINGS AND EQUIPMENT HELD FOR SALE In 1993, the Company sold one division and outsourced manufacturing at another location. As a result, the Company has two facilities available for sale. Neither facility is currently utilized and the Company is actively pursuing the sale of both. One facility is under contract to sell and it is anticipated that the transaction will be finalized during the first half of 1998. 8. PENSION AND POSTRETIREMENT COSTS The Company and its subsidiaries have several non-contributory, defined benefit pension plans which cover substantially all employees. Benefits for salaried employees are based on years of service and the employee's average monthly compensation using the highest five consecutive years preceding retirement. Benefits for hourly employees are generally based on a specified payment per month for each year of service. The Company's funding policy is to contribute amounts sufficient to provide for benefits earned to date and those expected to be earned in the future. The discount rate and rate of increase in future compensation levels used in determining the actuarial present value of the projected benefit obligations were 7.0% and 4.0%, at December 31, 1997, 7.5% and 4.0% at December 31, 1996 and 7.25% and 4.0% at December 31, 1995. The expected long-term rate of return on assets was 8.5% in all years. The following table sets forth the plans' funded status and amounts recognized in the Company's balance sheet at December 31: 1997 1996 ----------- ----------- Actuarial present value of benefit obligations: Accumulated benefit obligations: Vested benefits.................... $25,430,985 $23,253,400 Non-vested benefits................ 1,121,041 1,065,066 ----------- ----------- Total............................ $26,552,026 $24,318,466 =========== =========== Projected benefit obligations for service rendered to date..................... $29,056,309 $26,515,239 Plan assets at fair value -- primarily equity and fixed income bond funds... 32,834,181 29,678,284 ----------- ----------- Excess of plan assets over projected benefit obligations.................. 3,777,872 3,163,045 Unrecognized net asset at January 1, 1986 being recognized principally over 15 years........................ (752,700) (950,426) Unrecognized net gain from past experience different from that assumed.............................. (2,364,432) (1,888,671) Additional minimum liability........... (180,335) (156,892) ----------- ----------- Net pension asset...................... $ 480,405 $ 167,056 =========== =========== For plans included above where projected benefits exceed plan assets the following data is set forth: 1997 1996 -------- -------- Accumulated benefit obligations.............. $918,272 $844,844 Projected benefit obligations................ 946,925 881,981 Plan assets at fair value.................... 737,182 639,326 Net pension credit included the following components: 1997 1996 1995 ----------- ----------- ----------- Service cost-benefits earned during the year... $ 570,823 $ 584,825 $ 467,594 Interest cost on projected benefit obligations...... 1,942,248 1,869,757 1,755,902 Actual return on plan assets................... (4,872,550) (3,506,258) (4,310,407) Net amortization and deferral................. 2,104,491 979,521 1,956,305 ----------- ----------- ----------- Net pension credit......... $ (254,988) $ (72,155) $ (130,606) =========== =========== =========== The Company has a 401(k) plan covering its salaried employees. Employees can contribute up to 15% of their salaries. The Company makes no contribution to this plan. Certain divisions and subsidiaries of the Company provide contributory defined benefit health care plans for retirees, subject to various conditions and limitations. Net periodic postretirement benefit costs included the following components: 1997 1996 1995 -------- -------- -------- Service cost-benefits attributed to service during the period... $100,341 $171,286 $161,389 Interest cost on accumulated postretirement benefit obligation..................... 246,921 284,266 290,573 Net amortization................. (48,580) -- -- -------- -------- -------- Net periodic postretirement benefit cost................... $298,682 $455,552 $451,962 ======== ======== ======== 9 13 The Company's postretirement benefit plans are not funded. The status of the plans at December 31, 1997 and 1996 follows: 1997 1996 ---------- ---------- Accumulated postretirement benefit obligation: Retirees.................................. $2,121,546 $2,149,113 Fully eligible active plan participants... 248,040 283,839 Other active plan participants............ 1,113,065 1,653,460 Unrecognized net gain and prior service cost...................................... 1,006,331 207,172 ---------- ---------- Total accrued postretirement benefits... $4,488,982 $4,293,584 ========== ========== For measurement purposes, a 8.0% annual rate of increase in the per capita cost of covered health care benefits was assumed for 1997. The rate is assumed to decrease gradually over the next 8 years to 5.0% in 2002 and thereafter. The assumption for the health care cost trend rate has a significant effect on the amount of the obligation and periodic cost reported. An increase in the assumed health care cost trend rates by 1.0% in each year would increase the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation as of December 31, 1997 by approximately $640,129 and the aggregate of the service and interest cost components of net periodic postretirement benefit cost for the year then ended by approximately $54,659. The assumed discount rate used in determining the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation was 7.0% at December 31, 1997, 7.5% at December 31, 1996 and 7.25% at December 31, 1995. 9. SALE OF PACIFIC INDUSTRIAL FURNACE DIVISION On October 21, 1996, the Company completed the sale of the net assets of its Pacific Industrial Furnace Company (PIFCO) division. A portion of the consideration was received as a $1,562,665 note which was paid in 1997. Also, the Company entered into a consulting agreement which provides that it will receive compensation for providing certain services to the buyer over a four year period. The 1996 pre-tax gain on the sale of this division was $369,000. Included in 1996 results are sales of $4.6 million and a before tax loss of $573,000 applicable to PIFCO. 10. OTHER INCOME -- NET Other income includes interest income of approximately $7,000, $182,000 and $272,000 for 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively. 11. CONTINGENCIES The Company and at least seventeen other companies are potentially responsible for sharing the costs in a proceeding to clean up contaminated sediments in the Fields Brook watershed in Ashtabula, Ohio. The Environmental Protection Agency ('EPA') issued a Record of Decision in 1986 concerning the methods it recommends using to accomplish this task. The Company and the other potentially responsible parties negotiated with the EPA as to how best to effect the clean up operation. After negotiation, an agreement was reached with EPA on clean-up methodology. The Company's share of clean-up costs is anticipated to be in the range of approximately $3.0 to $3.5 million. The Company maintains a reserve for anticipated expenditures over the next several years in connection with remedial investigations, feasibility studies, remedial design, and remediation relating to the clean up of environmental contamination at several sites, including properties owned by the Company. The amounts of the reserve at December 31, 1997 and 1996 were $9.6 million and $10.3 million respectively. The reserve includes a provision for the Company's anticipated share of remediation in the Fields Brook watershed referred to above, as well as a provision for costs that are expected to be incurred in connection with remediation of other sites. Some of these studies have been completed; others are ongoing. In some cases, the methods of remediation remain to be agreed upon. The Company expects to continue to incur professional fees, expenses and capital expenditures in connection with its environmental compliance efforts. In addition to the above, there are several other claims and lawsuits pending against the Company and its subsidiaries. The amount of liability to the Company with respect to costs of remediation of contamination of the Fields Brook watershed and of other sites, and the amount of liability with respect to several other claims and lawsuits against the Company, was based on available data. The Company has established its reserves in accordance with its interpretation of the principles outlined in Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 5 and Securities and Exchange Commission Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 92. In the event that any additional accruals should be required in the future with respect to such matters, the amounts of such additional accruals could have a material impact on the results of operations to be reported for a specific accounting period but should not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial position. 12. PREFERRED STOCK The Company has authorized 1,000,000 shares of $2 par value preferred stock, issuable in series. No shares were issued or outstanding as of December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995. 13. STOCK PURCHASE RIGHTS The Company has in place a Shareholder Rights Plan, under which preferred stock purchase rights were distributed to shareholders as a dividend of one Right for each outstanding 10 14 share of Common Stock. Each Right will entitle shareholders to buy one one-hundredth of a newly issued share of Series A Preferred Stock of the Company at an exercise price of $80, subject to adjustment. The Rights will be exercisable only if a person or group acquires beneficial ownership of 15% or more of the Company's outstanding Common Stock or commences a tender or exchange offer upon consummation of which a person or group would beneficially own 30% or more of the Company's outstanding Common Stock. Until they become exercisable, the Rights will be evidenced by the Common Stock certificates and will be transferred only with such certificates. If any person becomes the beneficial owner of 15% or more of the Company's outstanding Common Stock, or if a holder of 15% or more of the Company's Common Stock engages in certain self-dealing transactions or a merger transaction in which the Company is the surviving corporation and its Common Stock remains outstanding, then each Right not owned by such person or certain related parties will entitle its holder to purchase, at the Right's then-current exercise price, shares of the Company's Common Stock (or, in certain circumstances, units of the Company's Series A Preferred Stock, cash, property or other securities of the Company) having a market value equal to twice the then-current exercise price. In addition, if the Company is involved in a merger or other business combination transaction with another person after which its Common Stock does not remain outstanding, or sells 50% or more of its assets or earning power to another person, each Right will entitle its holder to purchase, at the Right's then-current exercise price, shares of common stock of such other person having a market value equal to twice the then-current exercise price. The Company will generally be entitled to redeem the Rights at $.01 per Right at any time until the tenth business day following public announcement that a person or group has acquired 15% or more of the Company's Common Stock. The Plan will expire on May 4, 2000 unless the Rights are earlier redeemed by the Company. 14. STOCK OPTIONS On April 22, 1993, the shareholders of the Company approved the Corporation's 1993 Stock Option Plan (the Management Plan) and the Corporation's 1993 Stock Option Plan for Outside Directors (the Directors' Plan). A summary of the fixed stock option grants under Detrex's Management Plan and Directors Plan as of December 31, 1997, 1996, and 1995, and changes during the years is presented below. The total number of shares reserved for issuance upon exercise of options under the Management Plan is 150,000 shares and under the Directors' Plan is 50,000 shares. Of the 200,000 options reserved, 34,000 remain available for future grants. Management Plan Directors Plan ------------------------ ----------------------- Shares Shares Under Weighted Ave. Under Weighted Ave. Option Exercise Price Option Exercise Price ------ -------------- ------ -------------- 1995 Outstanding at beginning of year................ 95,000 $9.01 24,000 $10.30 Granted.................. 3,000 8.00 6,000 8.25 Exercised................ -- -- -- -- Forfeited................ 75,000 9.00 -- -- Outstanding at end of year................... 23,000 8.90 30,000 9.89 1996 Granted.................. 101,000 6.27 6,000 7.31 Exercised................ -- -- -- -- Forfeited................ 5,000 8.625 -- -- Outstanding at end of year................... 119,000 6.68 36,000 9.46 1997 Granted.................. 2,000 9.00 6,000 8.13 Exercised................ -- -- -- -- Forfeited................ -- -- -- -- Outstanding at end of year................... 121,000 6.72 42,000 9.27 Of the 163,000 options outstanding at December 31, 1997, the weighted average remaining life is 7.5 years, and 97,700 of such options are exercisable at December 31, 1997. Also, of the 163,000 options outstanding, 104,000 are in-the-money and 59,000 are out-of-the-money. The range of exercise prices is from $5.00 to $13.20. In accordance with the Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation, the Company has elected to continue to report compensation by applying the requirements of Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees and therefore has recorded no charge to income for stock options. The pro-forma effect of applying the Black-Scholes option valuation model to options granted in 1995, 1996 and 1997 as well as the underlying weighted average Black-Scholes assumptions are as follows: 1997 1996 1995 ---- ---- ---- Net income (loss) as reported (in thousands)........................ $1,513 $415 $(1,869) Pro-forma net income (loss) (in thousands)........................ 1,434 347 (1,890) Earnings (loss) per share as reported.......................... 0.96 0.26 (1.18) Pro-forma earnings (loss) per share............................. 0.91 0.22 (1.19) Expected Volatility................. 0.37 0.36 0.42 Risk-Free Rate of Return............ 6.54 5.99 7.23 Expected Life....................... 6-10 Years 10 Years 10 Years Using the assumptions underlying the Black-Scholes model, the per share weighted average fair value of options granted in 1997, 1996 and 1995 is $4.60, $3.51 and $5.56, respectively. 11 15 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS Detrex Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries (the Company) earned $1,513,000 for the year ended December 31, 1997, compared to a net profit of $415,000 for the year ended December 31, 1996 and a net loss of $1,869,000 for the year ended December 31, 1995. All of the Company's business units were profitable in 1997 and the Company has achieved eight consecutive quarters of profitability. In 1997 the Company earned $868,000, or approximately 57% of its annual net income, in the fourth quarter, compared with 1996 where the Company earned $256,000, or approximately 62% of its annual net income in the fourth quarter. The fourth quarter of 1997 was favorably impacted by high earnings from the Company's Equipment Division, favorable inventory adjustments, and the return to income of a portion of the Company's tax valuation reserve. The year-to-year improvement was achieved through a combination of actions in the business units and the corporate office. The Elco Corporation ("Elco") improved its operations by rationalizing its product lines and introducing new products. Harvel Plastics, Inc. ("Harvel") took advantage of new production equipment and tooling to maintain its edge in quality and to introduce new products to the market, resulting in substantial volume growth. Seibert-Oxidermo, Inc. ("Seibert") achieved QS-9000 certification, introduced several new custom products, and generated a profit in a highly competitive market. The Equipment Division returned to profitability in 1996 and continued the improvement in 1997 as it reestablished its position in the marketplace; in addition, process improvements in engineering and project management contributed to improved results. Cost cutting at the corporate office and the Solvents and Environmental Division provided significant bottom line savings. The Solvents Division also succeeded in increasing market share in a shrinking market through intense customer focus. In general, the Company has benefited from an emphasis on sales, service and support to its customer base. COMPARATIVE OPERATING DATA (IN THOUSANDS) 1997 1996 1995 --------------- --------------- ---------------- $ % $ % $ % ------ ----- ------ ----- ------- ----- Net sales................................................ 95,757 100.0 96,825 100.0 94,302 100.0 Gross margin............................................. 24,401 25.5 22,678 23.4 21,240 22.5 Selling, general and administrative expenses............. 17,816 18.6 18,924 19.5 20,028 21.2 Depreciation and amortization............................ 3,243 3.4 3,189 3.3 3,394 3.6 Gain on sale of PIFCO.................................... -- -- 369 .4 -- -- Net income (loss)........................................ 1,513 1.6 415 .4 (1,869) (2.0) 1997 COMPARED TO 1996 -- Net sales in 1997 reflect a $3.5 million revenue increase which replaced nearly all of the $4.6 million sales revenue associated with the industrial furnace division (PIFCO) which was sold in 1996. Our plastic pipe subsidiary, Harvel was the main contributor to the revenue growth. Gross margin in 1997 was 25.5%, compared to 23.4% in 1996. Improved cost control at the Company's Equipment Division and its Solvents and Environmental Services Division accounted for most of the margin improvement. The $1.1 million decrease in selling, general and administrative expenses is primarily attributable to a division being sold in the fourth quarter of 1996, the cost cutting activities that took place at the Company's Solvents and Environmental Services Division and reduction in outside commissions at Elco. The provision for depreciation and amortization is approximately the same as the prior year for all of the Company's business units. In 1996, the "Other income" category reflects royalty income received by Seibert that ended in early 1997, whereas in 1997 the expense is primarily a write-down of a plant facility in anticipation of its sale. During 1997, the Company kept its borrowings under its Credit Agreement at a lower level than during 1996; consequently interest expense was lower in 1997 than in 1996. Income tax expense in 1997 reflects state, local and federal income taxes, partially offset by returning to income the deferred tax valuation allowance that was established in 1995. Income tax expense in 1996 reflects the normal provisions, completely offset 12 16 MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS--CONTINUED by a credit to reflect the recognition of a rate differential resulting from the carry-back of certain components of prior year net operating losses to tax years in which the statutory rate was 46%. 1996 COMPARED TO 1995 -- Net sales in 1996 increased $2.5 million over 1995 amounts. Revenue increases occurred at the Company's Equipment Division, Seibert, Harvel, and Elco. Revenue decreases occurred at the Solvents and Environmental Services Division and at PIFCO which was sold in October. Gross margin in 1996 was 23.4%, compared to 22.5% in 1995. The increase is attributable to improved margins at the Company's Equipment Division and Elco. These two business units had the largest increase in sales, were able to control costs, and therefore benefitted from economies of scale. In addition, Elco entered the pharmaceutical intermediate market where margins are better than Elco's traditional product lines. The $1.1 million decrease in selling, general and administrative expenses is attributable to cost cutting and control activities that took place, and a reduction in termination and severance pay. Cost cutting was most prevalent in the Company's Solvents and Environmental Services Division. This cost cutting action contributed to a smaller loss for this division in 1996 than the one that occurred in 1995. The 1996 provision for depreciation and amortization is approximately the same as in 1995 for all of the Company's current business units. The overall reduction in depreciation expense is primarily attributable to no depreciation in 1996 on a former production facility currently held for sale. Interest expense increased in 1996 as a result of higher interest rates being incurred on the short-term borrowings under the Company's credit facility. This rate increase was partially offset by lower borrowings. The income tax credit in 1996 reflects the normal federal income tax provision, state and local income taxes, and a credit reflecting the recognition of a rate differential resulting from the carry-back of certain components of this year's taxable loss to a tax year in which the statutory rate was 46%. LIQUIDITY, FINANCIAL CONDITION AND CAPITAL RESOURCES The Company utilized a combination of internally generated funds and the receipt of a federal income tax refund to finance its activities during 1997. The Company funded $4.7 million in capital expenditures without utilizing any of its $2.0 million term loan commitment. Working capital was $9.3 million at December 31, 1997, compared to $8.5 million at December 31, 1996. The Company is projecting capital expenditures of approximately $8.5 million for 1998, including almost $4.0 million for the expansion of Harvel's operations and $400,000 for replacing and upgrading the Company's computer systems. These capital expenditures will be financed through internally generated funds and industrial development bonds. The Company has paid no dividends since the second quarter of 1991 and cannot forecast when dividend payments will be restored. 13 17 MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS--CONTINUED OTHER The Company implemented AICPA Statement of Position 96-1, Environmental Remediation Liabilities, and Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 128, Earning per Share. Implementation had no material impact on the results of operations, the Company's consolidated financial position, or earnings per share. The Company will be implementing Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 131, Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information, in 1998 but at the current time cannot determine how many segments it will be reporting. During the last half of 1997, the Company undertook a study to determine its future computer and software requirements. Included in this study were the Year 2000 (Y2K) compliance considerations. The Company will be upgrading its systems over the next two years and, by the second half of 1999, will only be utilizing programs that are Y2K compliant. Also, since the Company relies on electronic data from its vendors, financial institutions, customers, and other constituents, the Company will conduct surveys to determine if these entities are on schedule to become Y2K compliant. The outcome of these surveys cannot be predicted. In order to place a high priority on Y2K compliance, the Company has designated a project manager and a supporting team to assume responsibility for implementation. A software vendor has been selected and a consultant has been engaged to assist in the process. All internal costs associated with the project have not been identified; however, total capital expenditures for the project could approximate $800,000. 14 18 SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA (Dollars in thousands except per share amounts) 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 ------- ------- ------- -------- -------- Net sales.............................................. $95,757 $96,825 $94,302 $100,096 $105,578 Net income (loss)...................................... 1,513 415 (1,869) (5,639) (1,570) Earnings (loss) per common share -- basic.............. .96 .26 (1.18) (3.56) (.99) Earnings (loss) per common share -- diluted............ .94 .26 (1.18) (3.56) (.99) Total assets........................................... 55,571 55,592 57,659 61,775 59,052 Net working capital.................................... 9,274 8,515 6,317 6,968 10,721 Capital expenditures................................... 4,710 2,325 2,095 2,201 1,464 Long term portion of capital lease obligations......... 569 394 518 702 1,030 Total bank debt........................................ 5,700 5,627 8,500 5,500 4,000 Stockholders' equity................................... 18,822 17,309 16,893 18,763 24,373 Stockholders' equity per common share.................. 11.89 10.93 10.67 11.85 15.42 Number of employees.................................... 353 345 347 367 388(1) Percentages to net sales: Gross margin...................................... 25.5 23.4 22.5 22.9 23.8 Net income (loss)................................. 1.6 .4 (2.0) (5.6) (1.5) Net income (loss) as a percent of: Average total assets.............................. 2.7 .7 (3.1) (9.3) (2.6) January 1st stockholders' equity.................. 8.7 2.5 (10.0) (23.1) (6.1) Current ratio.......................................... 1.4 1.4 1.3 1.3 1.5 (1) At January 1, 1994. 15 19 PRODUCTS OF THE DETREX GROUP OF COMPANIES CHEMICALS DIVISION(1) EQUIPMENT DIVISION P.O. BOX 1398, 325 EMMETT AVENUE, ASHTABULA, OHIO 44004 BOWLING GREEN, R. D. WYVILL, General Manager KENTUCKY 42101 N-Methyl Pyrrole and Pyrrole D. R. CRANDELL, Semi-conductor Grade Division President Hydrochloric Acid Aqueous and Semi-Aqueous Pharmaceutical Intermediates Cleaning Equipment (1) Operated by The Elco Corporation Electronic Component Cleaning and Defluxing Machines SOLVENTS AND Vapor Degreasers ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES DIVISION AUTOMATION DIVISION 24901 NORTHWESTERN HWY, 24901 NORTHWESTERN HWY, SUITE 512 SOUTHFIELD, MICHIGAN SOUTHFIELD, MICHIGAN 48075 48075 C. K. UTZ, General Manager D. R. CRANDELL, Division President Automation and Material Virgin or Recycled Solvents Handling Equipment Solvent Reclamation and Waste Management RTI LABORATORIES DIVISION 31628 GLENDALE, LIVONIA, MICHIGAN 48150 J. G. SINGH, General Manager Analytical Laboratory Services HARVEL PLASTICS, INC. P.O. BOX 757, EASTON, PENNSYLVANIA 18042 E. E. WISMER, President PVC and CPVC Plastic Pipe Solid Bar, Heavy Wall Tubular Stock, Angle Stock, Custom Extrusions SEIBERT-OXIDERMO, INC. 16255 WAHRMAN, ROMULUS, MICHIGAN 48174 D. A. CHURCH, President Industrial and Automotive Coatings Conductive Primers for Rigid and Flexible Plastics Adhesion Promoters for Plastics Automotive Parts Enamels Solvent and Water-Borne Coatings THE ELCO CORPORATION 1000 BELT LINE ST., CLEVELAND, OHIO 44109 R. D. WYVILL, President Petroleum Additives for Hydraulic Fluids, Industrial Gear Oils, Greases and Metalworking Fluids SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION (Unaudited) Selected Quarterly Data (Thousands of dollars except per share amounts) 1997 Quarters 1996 Quarters ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- 4th 3rd 2nd 1st 4th 3rd 2nd 1st ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- Net sales....................... $25,972 $22,908 $23,716 $23,161 $23,453 $25,060 $24,312 $24,000 Gross margin on sales........... 7,221 5,798 5,786 5,596 5,617 5,639 5,847 5,575 Net income...................... 868 173 336 136 256 35 113 11 Per common share -- basic....... .55 .11 .21 .09 .16 .02 .07 .01 Per common share -- diluted..... .53 .11 .21 .09 .16 .02 .07 .01 Stock price range(1) High.......................... 11 1/4 9 7/8 9 1/4 8 1/4 7 7 1/4 8 1/2 8 3/4 Low........................... 8 3/4 7 1/4 7 1/4 5 3/4 5 3/4 5 1/4 5 4 3/4 (1) Stock price range was obtained from NASDAQ quotations. 16 20 DIRECTORS BRUCE W. COX President, B. W. Cox Company, Manufacturers Representative ROBERT A. EMMETT, III Partner, Reed Smith Shaw & McClay, Attorneys, Washington, D.C. WILLIAM C. KING Chairman and Chief Executive Officer JOHN F. MANGOLD Manufacturing Consultant THOMAS E. MARK President and Chief Operating Officer BENJAMIN W. McCLEARY Partner, McFarland Dewey & Co., Investment Bankers, New York City ARBIE R. THALACKER Partner, Shearman & Sterling, Attorneys, New York City JOHN D. WITHROW Retired President and Chief Operating Officer, Lectron Products Inc. AUDIT COMMITTEE JOHN F. MANGOLD, Chairman ARBIE R. THALACKER ROBERT A. EMMETT, III TRANSFER AGENT AND REGISTRAR STATE STREET BANK AND TRUST COMPANY AUDITORS DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP OFFICERS W. C. KING Chairman and Chief Executive Officer T. E. MARK President and Chief Operating Officer G. J. ISRAEL Vice President-Finance, Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer R. M. CURRIE Secretary and General Counsel E. R. RONDEAU Controller A COPY OF THE COMPANY'S ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K AS FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION FOR THE YEAR 1997 WILL BE FURNISHED WITHOUT CHARGE TO SHAREHOLDERS UPON WRITTEN REQUEST. REQUESTS ARE TO BE SENT TO VICE PRESIDENT-FINANCE, DETREX CORPORATION, 24901 NORTHWESTERN HWY., SUITE 500, SOUTHFIELD, MICHIGAN 48075. 21 DETREX CORPORATION GENERAL OFFICES -- 24901 NORTHWESTERN HWY., SUITE 500, SOUTHFIELD, MICHIGAN 48075 - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- MAILING ADDRESS -- P.O. BOX 5111, SOUTHFIELD, MI 48086-5111 Telephone: (248) 358-5800 INTERNET ADDRESS -- http://www.detrex.com