FIELDCREST CANNON, INC. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS RESULTS OF OPERATIONS The following summary income statement sets forth the percentage relationship that certain costs and expenses and other items in the income statement bear to net sales (dollars in millions). 1996 1995 1994 Amount Percent Amount Percent Amount Percent NET SALES $1,092.5 100.0% $1,095.2 100.0% $1,063.7 100.0% Cost of sales 956.6 87.6 966.6 88.3 898.4 84.5 Selling, general and administrative 105.4 9.6 108.2 9.9 94.8 8.9 Restructuring charges 8.1 .7 20.5 1.8 -- -- OPERATING INCOME (LOSS) 22.4 2.1 (.1) -- 70.5 6.6 Interest expense 26.8 2.5 27.6 2.5 23.3 2.2 Other (income) expense, (5.6) (.5) .1 -- .9 .1 INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE INCOME TAXES 1.2 .1 (27.8) (2.5) 46.3 4.3 Federal and state income taxes (benefit) .1 -- (12.1) (1.1) 15.6 1.4 NET INCOME (LOSS) $ 1.1 .1% $ (15.7) (1.4)% $ 30.7 2.9% 13 FIELDCREST CANNON, INC. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS 1996 COMPARED TO 1995 Net sales for 1996 were $1,092.5 million compared to $1,095.2 million for 1995, a decrease of .2%. The decline was primarily due to the sale of the Blanket Division in November 1996. Net sales increased 1.3% after excluding Blanket Division sales for both periods. The increase in sales other than blankets was due primarily to volume increases. Gross profit margins increased from 11.7% in 1995 to 12.4% in 1996 primarily because of reduced manufacturing costs associated with the new towel weaving facility in Phenix City, Alabama and the outsourcing of the Bed Division yarn production. These cost reductions were partially offset by $4.1 million of equipment relocation and training costs related to the consolidation and closing of two towel facilities. Selling, general and administrative expenses as a percent of sales decreased from 9.9% in 1995 to 9.6% in 1996. The decrease was due primarily to lower advertising and other selling expenses. These lower expenses were partially offset by higher costs related to the outsourcing of the Company's information technology services and functions in August 1996. Operating income for 1996 was reduced $8.1 million by restructuring charges of $3.6 million for closing a towel weaving plant and a yarn manufacturing plant and $4.5 million for employee termination benefits and disposal costs related to the sale of certain Blanket Division assets. See Note 2 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. Before the restructuring charges, operating income in 1996 was $30.5 million, or 2.8% of sales, compared to $20.4 million, or 1.9% of sales, in 1995. Net interest expense decreased $.8 million in 1996. The decrease was primarily due to $2.1 million of interest income received with refunds of federal income taxes during 1996. Excluding the effects of the interest income, interest expense increased due to higher average debt and interest rates during 1996. Other income of $5.6 million related primarily to the sale of two warehouse distribution centers and a towel yarn facility that were no longer used by the Company. The effective income tax rate was 9.7% in 1996 compared to an effective income tax benefit of 43.5% in 1995. See Note 11 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. Net income was $1.1 million, or a loss of $.38 per share after $4.5 million of preferred dividends, in 1996 compared to a loss of $15.7 million, or $2.28 per share, in 1995. Excluding the effects of the restructuring charges, net income was $6.1 million, or $.18 per share, in 1996, compared to a loss of $3.6 million, or $.91 per share, in 1995. 1995 COMPARED TO 1994 Net sales for 1995 were $1,095.2 million compared to $1,063.7 million for 1994, an increase of 3%. The $31.5 million increase includes $47.0 million of furniture coverings from the Sure Fit business acquired in January 1995. The 1.5% decrease in sales, after adjusting for the Sure Fit acquisition, was due to lower volumes which were only partially offset by price increases implemented in the last half of 1994 and during 1995. The volume decline occurred in the second half of the year and is attributed primarily to weakness in retail sales. Gross profit margins decreased from 15.5% in 1994 to 11.7% in 1995 primarily because of higher raw material prices and lower mill activity. Selling, general and administrative expenses as a percent of sales increased from 8.9% in 1994 to 9.9% in 1995. The increase was due primarily to increased advertising and other selling expenses. Operating income for 1995 was also reduced by $20.5 million of restructuring charges resulting from the reorganization of the Company's New York operations, which included severance and termination benefits for 54 employees, a related voluntary early retirement program, which was accepted by 87 employees and closing two yarn mills. See Note 2 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. The reorganization of the New York office and related early retirement program are expected to reduce pre-tax annual costs by approximately $8 million. The Company has contracted to purchase yarn from outside vendors and expects annual pre-tax savings of $8 to $9 million. Before the restructuring charges, operating income in 1995 was $20.4 million, or 1.8% of sales, compared to $70.5 million, or 6.6% of sales, in 1994. 14 FIELDCREST CANNON, INC. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS Interest expense increased $4.3 million in 1995. The increase was due to higher rates under the revolver and an increase in average debt outstanding. Debt increased during 1995 because of the Sure Fit acquisition and the Company's increased level of capital expenditures. In 1994 the Company allocated $1.6 million of interest costs to the Amoskeag assets held for sale. An income tax benefit equal to 43.5% of the 1995 pre-tax loss was recognized in 1995, compared to an effective income tax rate of 33.6% on pre-tax income in 1994. A $1.7 million favorable settlement of prior years income taxes in 1994 reduced the 1994 effective tax rate by 3.7%. See Note 11 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. Net loss from continuing operations of $15.7 million, or $2.28 per share, was incurred in 1995 compared to net income of $30.7 million, or $3.02 per share, in 1994. The loss before restructuring charges was $3.6 million, or $.91 per share, in 1995 compared to income of $29.0 million, or $2.82 per share, in 1994 after excluding the favorable settlements of prior years income taxes of $1.7 million from 1994. LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES The Company's primary capital requirements are for working capital, principally inventory and accounts receivable, and capital expenditures. The Company historically has financed these requirements, including its working capital requirements which follow a seasonal pattern, with funds generated from its operations and through borrowings under its revolving credit agreements. The table below summarizes the Company cash provided by operating and financing activities and cash provided by (used in) investing activities. (Dollars in thousands) 1996 1995 CASH PROVIDED (USED): Net income (loss) $ 1,060 $(15,725) Depreciation and amortization 36,678 31,746 Deferred income taxes (2,184) (2,384) Working capital, excluding effects of acquisition of Sure Fit and sale of Blanket Division inventories 8,256 12,613 Other (3,409) 1,597 Financing activities (53,164) 42,386 TOTAL CASH PROVIDED (USED) (12,763) 70,233 CASH USED FOR: Additions to plant and equipment (33,386) (64,153) Sale of plant and equipment 15,483 1,218 Proceeds from sale of Blanket Division inventories and equipment 26,189 -- Proceeds from net assets held for sale -- 23,241 Purchase of Sure Fit, net of cash acquired -- (27,300) TOTAL CASH PROVIDED BY (USED IN) INVESTING ACTIVITIES 8,286 (66,994) INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH $ (4,477) $ 3,239 Working capital requirements decreased in 1996 primarily because accounts receivables decreased $13.6 million in connection with the closing of the Blanket Division operations. Working capital requirements decreased in 1995 primarily because accounts receivables decreased $10.6 million. Total debt as a percent of total capitalization (long-term debt, short-term debt and shareowners' equity) was 60% at December 31, 1996, compared to 63% at the end of 1995. Capital expenditures totalled $33.4 million in 1996 compared to $64.2 million spent in 1995. Capital expenditures for 1997 are expected to be approximately $70 million. Included in the 1995 capital expenditures is $37.2 million for a new weaving plant at the Company's Columbus, Ga./Phenix City, Ala. towel mill which was completed during 1996. It is anticipated that financing of future capital expenditures will be provided by cash flows from operations, borrowings under the Company's revolving credit facility, and, possibly, the sale of long-term debt or equity securities. The Company's revolving credit facility in place during 1996 allowed the Company to borrow up to $195 million through January 3, 1998. Effective January 30, 1997, the Company refinanced its existing revolving credit facility with a new revolving credit facility which allows the Company to borrow up to $200 million through January 30, 2002. Outstanding letters of credit reduce the availability under the revolving credit facility by $12.6 million. The Company uses its revolving credit facility for long-term debt purposes and its seasonal borrowing requirements during the year. Short-term borrowings are required during the year to finance seasonal increases in inventories and receivables. 15 FIELDCREST CANNON, INC. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES (CONTINUED) The new revolving credit facility requires, among other things, that the Company maintain certain financial ratios with regard to interest coverage and funded debt. It allows payment of $4.5 million of preferred dividends annually, but does not allow dividends on Common Stock. The agreement also places restrictions on the Company's ability to incur debt or liens, to make certain investments and to effect certain mergers, consolidations or sales of assets or changes in control. At December 31, 1996, borrowings under the $195 million revolving term debt agreement totalled $95.7 million. Interest rates on the replaced revolving term debt were, at the Company's option, at the prime rate, or at a Euromarket-based rate plus 2.25%. The borrowing rate decreased to a Euromarket-based rate plus 2% on January 31, 1997 under the new facility. MARKET AND DIVIDEND DATA The Company's Common Stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (trading symbol: FLD). At December 31, 1996, there were 1,953 shareholders of record of Common Stock. See Note 6 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements regarding restrictions on the payment of dividends. No dividends were paid on Common Stock during the last two years. The high and low sale prices on the New York Stock Exchange composite tape for the last two years were as shown below: Market price Common Stock Quarter, 1996 High Low 1st $ 21 1/2 $16 3/8 2nd 22 1/4 19 1/4 3rd 20 1/8 13 1/2 4th 16 12 7/8 Quarter, 1995 1st $ 25 3/8 $19 7/8 2nd 24 1/8 19 3/4 3rd 24 7/8 21 1/4 4th 22 1/4 15 3/4 QUARTERLY DATA (UNAUDITED) Data in millions, except per share information 1996 quarter ended March 31 June 30 Sept. 30 Dec. 31 Net sales $250.0 $277.8 $285.2 $279.5 Gross profit 34.9 36.0 35.7 29.4 Operating income 6.1 11.0 2.9 2.5 Net income (loss) (.7) 2.1 (2.7) 2.3 Primary earnings (loss) per share (.20) .11 (.43) .13 Fully diluted earnings (loss) per share (.20) .11 (.43) .13 1995 quarter ended March 31 June 30 Sept. 30 Dec. 31 Net sales $257.0 $273.1 $280.5 $284.6 Gross profit 43.0 34.4 40.1 11.1 Operating income (loss) 12.4 4.2 6.7 (23.4) Net income (loss) 3.6 (1.6) -- (17.7) Primary earnings (loss) per share .28 (.30) (.13) (2.11) Fully diluted earnings (loss) per share .28 (.30) (.13) (2.11) FIELDCREST CANNON, INC. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS Annual earnings for 1996 were reduced by pre-tax restructuring charges of $8.1 million which reduced net income by $5.1 million or $.56 per share. Quarterly earnings for 1996 were reduced by restructuring charges of $3.6 million, or $.25 per share, and $4.5 million, or $.31 per share, for the first and third quarters, respectively. The restructuring charges in the first quarter were related to the closing of two towel mills. The third quarter charges were the result of closing the Blanket facilities in Eden, North Carolina. Net income in the fourth quarter was increased $3.8 million, or $.42 per share, by pre-tax gains of $6.1 million related primarily to sale of two warehouse distribution centers and a towel yarn facility that were no longer used by the Company. Annual earnings for 1995 were reduced by pre-tax restructuring charges of $20.5 million which increased the net loss by $12.1 million, or $1.37 per share. Quarterly earnings for 1995 were reduced by restructuring charges of $3.9 million, or $.28 per share; $4.5 million, or $.32 per share; $7.1 million, or $.53 per share; and $4.9 million or $.23 per share for the first, second, third and fourth quarters, respectively. The restructuring charges during the first three quarters were related to the reorganization of the Company's New York operations and a related early retirement program. The fourth quarter charges were the result of closing two yarn mills. Quarterly earnings per share amounts presented for 1996 and 1995 do not equal the annual 1996 and 1995 earnings per share amount due to issuance of shares during the year. 17 FIELDCREST CANNON, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS AND RETAINED EARNINGS Year Ended December 31 Dollars in thousands, except per share data 1996 1995 1994 Net sales $1,092,496 $1,095,193 $1,063,731 Cost of sales (notes 2, 3) 956,522 966,642 898,437 Selling, general and administrative 105,405 108,194 94,756 Restructuring charges (note 2) 8,130 20,469 -- Total operating costs and expenses 1,070,057 1,095,305 993,193 Operating income (loss) 22,439 (112) 70,538 OTHER DEDUCTIONS (INCOME): Interest expense 26,869 27,630 23,268 Other, net (5,604) 67 987 Total other deductions 21,265 27,697 24,255 Income (loss) before income taxes 1,174 (27,809) 46,283 Federal and state income taxes (benefits) (note 11) 114 (12,084) 15,538 Net income (loss) 1,060 (15,725) 30,745 Preferred dividends (4,500) (4,500) (4,500) Earnings (loss) on common $ (3,440) $ (20,225) $ 26,245 Amount added to (subtracted from) retained earnings (3,440) (20,225) 26,245 Retained earnings, January 1 99,055 119,280 93,035 Retained earnings, December 31 $ 95,615 $ 99,055 $ 119,280 Primary earnings (loss) per common share $ (.38) $ (2.28) $ 3.02 Fully diluted earnings (loss) per common share (note 1) $ -- $ -- $ 2.51 Average primary shares outstanding 9,023,958 8,875,360 8,696,015 Average fully diluted shares outstanding 14,413,901 14,264,504 14,085,905 THE NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS. 18 FIELDCREST CANNON, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION At December 31, Dollars in thousands, except per share data 1996 1995 ASSETS Cash $ 4,647 $ 9,124 Accounts receivable less allowances of $7,693 in 1996 and $8,162 in 1995, principally trade 154,511 168,112 Inventories (note 3) 216,165 228,167 Other prepaid expenses and current assets 2,489 3,446 TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 377,812 408,849 Plant and equipment, net (notes 4, 7) 323,838 342,285 Deferred charges and other assets 66,843 61,812 TOTAL ASSETS $ 768,493 $ 812,946 LIABILITIES AND SHAREOWNERS' EQUITY Accounts and drafts payable $ 63,910 $ 54,274 Deferred income taxes 18,212 17,593 Accrued liabilities (note 5) 61,172 67,725 Current portion of long-term debt 5,508 780 TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES 148,802 140,372 Senior long-term debt (note 6) 107,746 155,262 Subordinated long-term debt (note 6) 203,750 210,000 Total long-term debt 311,496 365,262 Deferred income taxes 38,291 40,475 Other non-current liabilities 54,149 51,406 TOTAL NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES 403,936 457,143 TOTAL LIABILITIES 552,738 597,515 Commitments (notes 7, 9, 10) Preferred Stock, $.01 par value (note 8) Shares authorized: 10,000,000 Shares issued: 1,500,000 (aggregate liquidation preference of $75,000) 15 15 Common Stock, $1 par value (note 8) Shares authorized: 25,000,000 Shares issued, 1996: 12,738,894 12,739 Shares issued, 1995: 12,560,826 12,561 Additional paid in capital 224,611 221,025 Retained earnings 95,615 99,055 Excess purchase price for Common Stock acquired and held in treasury -- 3,606,400 shares (117,225) (117,225) TOTAL SHAREOWNERS' EQUITY 215,755 215,431 TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREOWNERS' EQUITY $ 768,493 $ 812,946 THE NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS. 19 FIELDCREST CANNON, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS For the years ended December 31, Dollars in thousands 1996 1995 1994 INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH Cash flows from operating activities: Net income (loss) $ 1,060 $(15,725) $ 30,745 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Depreciation and amortization 36,678 31,746 29,828 Deferred income taxes (2,184) (2,384) 7,677 Other (3,409) 1,597 (8,178) Change in current assets and liabilities, excluding effects of acquisition of Sure Fit and sale of Blanket Division inventories: Accounts receivable 13,601 10,579 (5,582) Inventories (10,004) 3,125 (4,160) Current deferred income taxes 619 (4,395) 7,189 Other prepaid expenses and current assets 957 582 (1,302) Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 3,083 4,990 (17,870) Federal and state income taxes -- (2,268) 2,006 NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES 40,401 27,847 40,353 Cash flows from investing activities: Additions to plant and equipment (33,386) (64,153) (51,929) Proceeds from disposal of plant and equipment 15,483 1,218 1,815 Proceeds from sale of Blanket Division inventories and equipment 26,189 -- -- Proceeds from sale of net assets held for sale -- 23,241 -- Purchase of Sure Fit, net of cash acquired -- (27,300) -- NET CASH PROVIDED BY (USED IN) INVESTING ACTIVITIES 8,286 (66,994) (50,114) Cash flows from financing activities: Increase (decrease) in revolving debt (46,816) 48,298 17,798 Proceeds from issuance of other long-term debt 3,610 -- 10,000 Payments on long-term debt (5,499) (1,469) (11,597) Proceeds from issuance of common stock 41 57 80 Dividends paid on preferred stock (4,500) (4,500) (4,500) NET CASH PROVIDED BY (USED IN) FINANCING ACTIVITIES (53,164) 42,386 11,781 Net increase (decrease) in cash (4,477) 3,239 2,020 Cash at beginning of year 9,124 5,885 3,865 Cash at end of year $ 4,647 $ 9,124 $ 5,885 SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION Cash paid during the year for: Interest expense $ 26,150 $ 25,471 $ 23,871 Income tax payments (refunds) (5,958) 2,848 5,381 THE NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS. 20 FIELDCREST CANNON, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Tabular Amounts in thousands except per share (1) SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES BASIS OF PRESENTATION -- The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Certain prior year items have been reclassified to conform to the 1996 presentation. The Company operates in the textile industry and is principally involved in the manufacture and sale of home furnishings products. These sales are primarily to domestic department stores, mass retailers, specialty stores and large chain stores. Sales to one customer (Wal-Mart Stores and its affiliates) represented 21.2%, 16.6% and 18.3% of total sales of the Company in 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively. 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 amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates. INVENTORIES -- Inventories are valued at the lower of cost, determined principally on a last-in, first-out basis, or market. DEPRECIATION -- Buildings, machinery and equipment are depreciated for financial reporting purposes on the straight line method over the estimated useful lives of these assets. Depreciation for tax purposes is provided on an accelerated basis. REVENUE RECOGNITION -- Revenue from product sales is recognized at the time ownership of the goods transfers to the customer. DEFERRED FINANCING FEES -- Debt financing fees are amortized over the term of the related debt. INCOME PER COMMON SHARE -- Primary earnings per common share is based on net income after preferred dividend requirements and the weighted average number of shares of Common Stock outstanding during the year and common stock equivalents attributable to outstanding stock options. Fully diluted earnings per common share are calculated assuming conversion, when dilutive, of the 6% convertible subordinated sinking fund debentures and the $3 Series A Convertible Preferred Stock. Fully diluted income per common share for 1996 and 1995 are not presented as effects are anti-dilutive. ACCOUNTING FOR STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION -- The Company accounts for its stock-based compensation in accordance with Accounting Principles Board (APB) Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees." Under APB 25, compensation expense is determined on the measurement date and compensation expense, if any, is measured based on the award's intrinsic value, the excess of the market price of the stock over the exercise price on the measurement date. 21 FIELDCREST CANNON, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Tabular Amounts in thousands except per share (2) RESTRUCTURING CHARGES In March 1996 the Company announced the closing of a towel weaving facility and yarn manufacturing facility. In September 1996, the Company sold certain Blanket Division inventories and equipment to Pillowtex Corporation which resulted in closing the Blanket facilities in Eden, N.C. As a result of these actions the company incurred restructuring charges of $8.1 million in 1996. The restructuring charges include $3.6 million for employee termination benefits, substantially all of which has been paid, and the write-down of weaving and yarn equipment associated with closing the towel facilities and $4.5 million for Blanket Division employee termination benefits and the write-down of certain Blanket Division real estate which the Company intends to dispose of during 1997. During 1995 the Company reorganized its New York operations and relocated sales, marketing and design personnel to Kannapolis, N.C. In conjunction with the reorganization, the Company offered a voluntary early retirement program to its salaried employees. In December 1995 the Company announced the closing of two yarn mills and agreed to sell a warehouse. As a result of these actions the Company incurred restructuring charges of $20.5 million in 1995. The restructuring charges include approximately $15.6 million primarily for severance and termination benefits for 54 employees, the voluntary early retirement program which was accepted by 87 employees and lease costs in connection with the New York reorganization and $4.4 million for the write-down of yarn equipment and $.5 million for termination benefits associated with closing the yarn mills. These charges increased the 1995 loss by $12.1 million, or $1.37 per share. At December 31, 1996, substantially all charges have been incurred. (3) INVENTORIES Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market and consisted of the following at December 31: 1996 1995 Finished goods $104,092 $117,776 Work in progress 68,668 72,315 Raw materials and supplies 43,405 38,076 Total $216,165 $228,167 Approximately 69% of the inventories at year-end 1996 and 73% at year-end 1995 were valued on the last-in, first-out method (LIFO). If the first-in, first-out method of accounting had been used, inventories would have been greater by approximately $45 million and $49 million at December 31, 1996 and 1995, respectively. The LIFO reserve decreased $3.4 million in 1996 and increased $9.2 million in 1995. In 1996, reduction in LIFO inventory quantities had the effect of increasing net income by approximately $.6 million, or $.07 per share. 22 FIELDCREST CANNON, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Tabular Amounts in thousands except per share (4) PLANT AND EQUIPMENT Plant and equipment is stated at cost and consisted of the following at December 31: 1996 1995 Land $ 2,794 $ 5,376 Buildings 207,909 213,205 Equipment 383,118 404,277 Plant additions in progress 16,467 24,903 Total 610,288 647,761 Accumulated depreciation (286,450) (305,476) Net plant and equipment $ 323,838 $ 342,285 (5) ACCRUED LIABILITIES Accrued liabilities were as follows at December 31: 1996 1995 Salaries and other compensation $10,630 $ 9,749 Pension, medical and other employee benefit plans 15,672 22,937 Advertising expense 3,579 4,301 Interest expense 3,629 4,267 Other 27,662 26,471 Total $61,172 $67,725 23 FIELDCREST CANNON, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Tabular Amounts in thousands except per share (6) DEBT Long-term debt at December 31 was as follows: 1996 1995 SENIOR LONG-TERM DEBT: Revolving term debt $ 95,706 $142,522 Industrial development bonds, due 2021 10,000 10,000 Industrial revenue bonds, due in installments through 2002 2,740 3,520 TOTAL SENIOR LONG-TERM DEBT 108,446 156,042 Less current portion 700 780 NET SENIOR LONG-TERM DEBT 107,746 155,262 SUBORDINATED LONG-TERM DEBT: 6% convertible subordinated sinking fund debentures due 1997 to 2012 123,558 125,000 11.25% senior subordinated debentures due 2002 to 2004 85,000 85,000 TOTAL SUBORDINATED LONG-TERM DEBT 208,558 210,000 Less current portion 4,808 -- Net subordinated long-term debt 203,750 210,000 TOTAL LONG-TERM DEBT $311,496 $365,262 The Company's revolving credit facility allowed the Company to borrow up to $195 million through January 3, 1998. Effective January 30, 1997, the Company replaced its existing revolving credit facility with a new revolving credit facility which allows the Company to borrow up to $200 million through January 30, 2002. Accordingly, borrowings under the revolving credit facility are classified as long-term debt. Interest rates on the replaced revolving term debt were, at the Company's option, at the prime rate fixed by The First National Bank of Boston, or at a Euromarket-based rate plus 2.25%. The borrowing rate decreased to a Euromarket-based rate plus 2% on January 31, 1997 under the new facility. The average interest rate on the revolving term debt was 7.8% on December 31, 1996. The new revolving credit facility is secured by a first lien on substantially all of the Company's accounts receivable, inventories and general intangibles and requires, among other things, that the Company maintain certain financial ratios with regard to interest coverage and funded debt. It allows payment of $4.5 million of preferred dividends annually, but does not allow dividends on Common Stock. The revolving term debt agreement also places restrictions on the Company's ability to incur debt or liens, to make certain investments and to effect certain mergers, consolidations or sales of assets or changes in control. The Company's 6% Convertible Subordinated Sinking Fund Debentures are convertible into shares of Common Stock of the Company at a conversion price of $44.25 per share. At December 31, 1996, the fair value of the Company's 6% Convertible Subordinated Debentures was $93.6 million compared to a carrying value of $123.6 million and the fair value of the 11.25% Subordinated Debentures was $88.2 million compared to a carrying value of $85 million. The fair value of the debentures is based on quoted market prices. Differences between fair value and carrying value of the Company's other debt were not significant. The aggregate principal and sinking fund payments required to be made on long-term debt during each of the five years subsequent to December 31, 1996 are: 1997, $5.5 million; 1998, $7.0 million; 1999, $6.6 million; 2000, $6.6 million and 2001, $6.6 million. 24 FIELDCREST CANNON, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Tabular Amounts in thousands except per share (7) LEASE OBLIGATIONS The Company leases certain real estate and equipment under various operating leases. Listed below are the future minimum rental payments required under these operating leases with noncancelable terms in excess of one year at December 31, 1996. Real Estate Equipment Total 1997 $ 5,596 $ 5,950 $11,546 1998 4,634 5,847 10,481 1999 3,547 5,077 8,624 2000 3,017 4,513 7,530 2001 2,919 3,393 6,312 Subsequent years 22,130 4,520 26,650 Net minimum lease payments $41,843 $ 29,300 $71,143 Total rental expense for all operating leases was $20.6 million, $22.0 million, and $20.2 million for 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively. (8) SHAREOWNERS' EQUITY In November 1993 the Company's shareowners authorized 10 million shares of undesignated preferred stock and the issuance of up to 1.8 million shares of preferred stock. On November 24, 1993, the Company sold 1.5 million shares of $3.00 Series A Convertible Preferred Stock ("$3.00 Preferred Stock") in a private offering and received net proceeds of $72.4 million. Each $3.00 Preferred Stock share is convertible into 1.7094 shares of Common Stock, equivalent to a conversion price of $29.25 on the $50 offering price. Annual dividends are $3.00 per share and are cumulative. The $3.00 Preferred Stock may be redeemed at the Company's option on or after September 1, 2004, in whole or in part, at $50 per share plus accrued and unpaid dividends. In the event the Company's 11.25% Senior Subordinated Debentures are not outstanding or have been defeased the $3.00 Preferred Stock may be redeemed, in whole or in part, at the option of the Company, at a redemption price of $51.50 per share beginning as of September 10, 1998 and at premiums declining to the $50 liquidation preference by September 2004. 25 FIELDCREST CANNON, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Tabular Amounts in thousands except per share (8) SHAREOWNERS' EQUITY (CONTINUED) On November 24, 1993, the Board of Directors adopted a Stockholder Rights Plan and declared a dividend of one preferred stock purchase right ("right") for each outstanding share of the Company's Common Stock. Similar rights have been, and generally will be, issued in respect of Common Stock subsequently issued. Each right becomes exercisable, upon the occurrence of certain events, for one one- hundredth of a share of Series B Junior Participating Preferred Stock, $.01 par value, at a purchase price of $80 or, in certain circumstances, Common Stock or other securities, cash or other assets having a then current market price (as defined and subject to adjustment) equal to twice such purchase price. Under the Stockholder Rights Plan, 500,000 shares of Series B Junior Participating Preferred Stock have been reserved. The rights currently are not exercisable and will be exercisable only if a person or group acquires beneficial ownership of 15% or more of the Company's outstanding shares of Common Stock. The rights, which expire on December 6, 2003, are redeemable in whole, but not in part, at the Company's option at any time for a price of $.02 per right. At December 31, 1996, the Company has the Employee Stock Option Plan and the Director Stock Option Plan. The Employee Stock Option Plan was adopted by the Board of Directors and approved by the shareowners in 1995. Under the Employee Plan, options granted may be either incentive or nonqualified stock options and are granted at not less than the fair market value of the Company's Common Stock at the time of grant. Options generally become exercisable in four equal annual installments commencing one year from the date of grant and expire ten years from such date. Under the plan, 435,000 shares of Common Stock have been reserved for awards. Any shares subject to an option which expires or is terminated unexercised as to such shares may again be subject to an option granted under the plan. During 1996 and 1995, respectively, options to purchase 37,500 and 400,400 shares of Common Stock were awarded at an average exercise price of $18.75 and $22.17. At December 31, 1996, there are 36,075 shares available for future grants. The Director Stock Option Plan was adopted by the Board of Directors and approved by the shareowners. Under the Directors's plan, an annual grant of an option to purchase 2,000 shares of Common Stock is awarded to each non-employee Director on the fifth business day after the annual meeting of shareowners. Options to non-employee Directors are nonqualified options. The price per share is the fair market value of the Company's Common Stock on the grant date. Options vest when awarded and expire seven years from the grant date, but no option may be exercised during the six-month period following its grant except in the case of death or disability. Under the plan, 500,000 shares of Common Stock have been reserved for awards. During 1996 and 1995, respectively, options to purchase 14,000 and 16,000 shares of Common Stock were awarded at an exercise price of $20.625 and, $22.125. At December 31, 1996, there are 418,000 shares available for future grants. 26 FIELDCREST CANNON, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Tabular Amounts in thousands except per share (8) SHAREOWNERS' EQUITY (CONTINUED) The Company accounts for these plans in accordance with APB Opinion 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees," and related interpretations instead of the alternative fair value accounting provided for under FASB No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation." Because the exercise price of the stock options is not less than the market price of the underlying stock on the date of grant, no compensation expense is recognized under APB 25. Had compensation costs for the Company's two Plans been determined based on the fair value at the grant dates for awards under those Plans consistent with the method of FASB Statement 123, the Company's net income and earnings per share would have been reduced to the pro forma amounts indicated below: 1996 1995 Net income (loss): As reported $1,060 $(15,725) Pro forma 6 (16,553) Earnings per share: As reported (.38) (2.28) Pro forma (.50) (2.37) The above pro forma amounts have been determined as if all grants after December 31, 1994 have been accounted for on the fair value method. The following schedule summarizes the Plans' stock option activity for the three years ended December 31, 1996: Weighted Number of Average Shares Exercise Price Outstanding, January 1, 1994 27,000 $ 16.17 Awarded 8,000 25.63 Exercised (5,000) 16.05 Outstanding, January 1, 1995 30,000 18.70 Awarded 416,400 22.17 Exercised (4,000) 14.16 Canceled (9,800) 22.67 Outstanding, January 1, 1996 432,600 22.16 Awarded 51,500 19.26 Exercised (2,000) 20.63 Canceled (36,175) 22.36 Outstanding, December 31, 1996 445,925 21.74 Options exercisable: December 31, 1994 30,000 December 31, 1995 40,000 December 31, 1996 149,750 Weighted-average fair value of options granted during the year: 1995 $ 12.43 1996 $ 9.12 The Black-Scholes option pricing model was used to calculate the fair value of each option based on the following assumptions for 1995 and 1996, respectively; risk-free interest rates 6.8 and 6.0 percent; no dividend yield for both years; expected lives of 6 and 6 years; and volatility of 48 and 40 percent. As of December 31, 1996, the 445,925 options outstanding under the Plans have exercise prices between $13.00 and $25.63 and a weighted average remaining contractual life of 7.5 years. 27 FIELDCREST CANNON, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Tabular Amounts in thousands except per share (8) SHAREOWNERS' EQUITY (CONTINUED) On September 11, 1991, the Board of Directors approved the grant of a nonqualified stock option to purchase 20,000 shares of Common Stock to the Company's chief executive officer. The per share price is $14.875, the fair market value on that date. This option became exercisable on January 1, 1992, and expires on September 10, 1998. The Company has a Long-Term Incentive Plan (the Plan). Under the Plan, employees who are senior executives of the Company may be awarded shares of Common Stock without cost to the employee. The fair market value of the shares at the date of award is accounted for as deferred compensation and is amortized over the restricted period. At December 31, 1996, unamortized deferred compensation of $.2 million is included in shareowners'equity as a reduction of additional paid in capital. Awards under the Plan are vested after the employee completes four years of continuous employment beginning with the year for which the award is made. Vesting occurs prior to completion of four years of employment if the employee dies while employed, reaches normal retirement or becomes disabled. Under the Plan, 650,000 shares of Common Stock have been reserved for awards. The following is an analysis of shares of restricted stock under the Long-term Incentive Plan: 1996 1995 1994 Number of Shares: Outstanding at beginning of year 141,146 151,111 111,674 Awarded -- 70,000 70,000 Cancelled (4,241) (5,460) -- Issued (52,030) (74,505) (30,563) Outstanding at end of year 84,875 141,146 151,111 Available for grant at end of year 194,249 190,008 254,548 Market value on date of grant for shares granted during year -- $ 22.00 $ 28.625 Transactions with respect to common stock and additional paid in capital during the three years ended December 31, 1996, were as follows: Additional Paid in Common Stock Capital Shares Amount Amount Balance 12/31/93 12,186,167 $12,186 $212,799 Shares issued to employee savings plans 99,085 99 2,571 Restricted shares award 70,000 70 (70) Earned compensation, restricted stock -- -- 1,431 Preferred stock issuance expense -- -- (73) Director stock options exercised 5,000 5 114 Balance 12/31/94 12,360,252 12,360 216,772 Shares issued to employee savings plans 132,034 132 2,563 Restricted shares awarded 70,000 70 (70) Restricted shares cancelled (5,460) (5) 5 Earned compensation, restricted stock -- -- 1,684 Director stock options exercised 4,000 4 71 Balance 12/31/95 12,560,826 12,561 221,025 Shares issued to employee savings plans 180,309 180 2,959 Restricted shares cancelled (4,241) (4) (104) Earned compensation, restricted stock -- -- 692 Director stock options exercised 2,000 2 39 Balance 12/31/96 12,738,894 $12,739 $224,611 Total shares of Common Stock outstanding as of December 31, 1996 are reduced to 9,132,494 shares by 3,606,400 shares of treasury stock acquired with the acquisition of Amoskeag. The $117.2 million cost of the treasury stock reduces total shareowners' equity. 28 FIELDCREST CANNON, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Tabular Amounts in thousands except per share (9) EMPLOYEE PENSION AND SAVINGS PLANS The Company has trusteed pension plans covering essentially all employees. The plans provide pension benefits that are based on the employees' compensation and service. The Company's policy is to fund amounts required by applicable regulations. Pension expense amounted to $5.6 million in 1996, $8.2 million in 1995 and $6.9 million in 1994. Net pension expense for 1996, 1995 and 1994 consisted of the following components: 1996 1995 1994 Service cost (benefits earned during the period) $ 8,103 $ 6,530 $ 8,076 Interest cost on projected benefit obligation 19,034 17,572 16,668 Actual return on assets (33,209) (52,465) 4,845 Net amortization and deferral 11,637 34,197 (22,703) Special termination benefits -- 2,359 -- Net pension cost $ 5,565 $ 8,193 $ 6,886 The Company recognized special termination benefits from a voluntary early retirement program in 1995. The table below sets forth the plans' funded status at December 31: 1996 1995 Projected benefit obligation: Vested benefits $250,242 $243,767 Non-vested benefits 7,075 6,265 Accumulated benefit obligation 257,317 250,032 Additional amounts related to projected compensation levels 7,507 8,121 Total projected benefit obligation 264,824 258,153 Plan assets at fair value, primarily publicly traded stocks and bonds 278,376 253,378 Plan assets over (under) projected benefit obligation 13,552 (4,775) Unrecognized net loss 15,442 31,752 Unrecognized net transition assets (534) (1,556) Unrecognized prior service cost 2,141 2,470 Net pension asset recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position $ 30,601 $ 27,891 Assumptions used in determining the funded status of the pension plans were as follows: 1996 1995 1994 Discount rate 7.75 % 7.25 % 8.6 % Increase in compensation levels 4.5 % 4.5 % 4.5 % Expected long-term rate of return on assets 9 % 9 % 9 % The Company also sponsors employee savings plans which cover substantially all employees. The Company provides a match of 70% of employee contributions up to two percent of compensation and a match of 20% of employee contributions for the next two percent of compensation. The matching formula may be changed yearly at the discretion of the Company. The match is contributed quarterly in Common Stock of the Company. Expense of the Company match was $3.1 million in 1996, $2.7 million in 1995 and $2.7 million in 1994. 29 FIELDCREST CANNON, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Tabular Amounts in thousands except per share (10) POSTRETIREMENT HEALTH CARE AND LIFE INSURANCE BENEFITS The Company provides medical insurance premium assistance and life insurance benefits to retired employees. The medical premium assistance payments are at a fixed dollar amount based on the retiree's years of service. Essentially all of the Company's employees become eligible for these benefits when they reach retirement age while working for the Company. The Company's policy is to fund the plans as benefits are paid. The table below sets forth the plans' combined status at December 31: 1996 1995 Accumulated postretirement benefit obligation -- Retirees $26,089 $25,057 Fully eligible active participants 7,441 8,892 Other active participants 4,802 5,838 Total 38,332 39,787 Unrecognized net gain (loss) 225 (1,422) Accrued postretirement benefit cost recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position at December 31 $38,557 $38,365 The discount rate used in determining the accumulated postretirement benefit obligation was 7.75% as of December 31, 1996 and 7.25% as of December 31, 1995. Medical premium assistance payments are at a fixed dollar amount based on the retiree's years of service and, therefore, the plan is not affected by a health care cost trend rate assumption. Net periodic postretirement benefit cost for 1996, 1995 and 1994 included the following components: 1996 1995 1994 Service Cost (benefits earned during the period) $ 903 $ 818 $ 979 Interest cost on projected benefit obligation 2,748 2,945 2,820 Net amortization and deferral 109 (171) 206 Net periodic postretirement benefit cost $3,760 $3,592 $ 4,005 30 FIELDCREST CANNON, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Tabular Amounts in thousands except per share (11) INCOME TAXES At December 31, 1996, the Company had $51.6 million of deferred tax assets and $108.1 million of deferred income tax liabilities which have been netted for presentation purposes. The significant components of these amounts as shown on the balance sheet are as follows: 12/31/96 12/31/95 Current Noncurrent Current Noncurrent Liability Liability Liability Liability Depreciation $ 576 $ 52,574 $ 636 $ 52,899 Inventory valuation 36,882 -- 35,924 -- Deferred compensation -- (5,400) (360) (5,031) Accruals and allowances (16,264) (1,123) (16,401) (4,129) Operating loss and credit carryforwards (4,973) -- (2,155) -- Other 1,991 (7,760) (51) (3,264) Total deferred tax liabilities $ 18,212 $ 38,291 $ 17,593 $ 40,475 The provision for income taxes included in the Consolidated Statement of Income and Retained Earnings consisted of the following: 1996 1995 1994 Current Federal $(1,582) $ (5,611) $ 5,397 State 131 306 56 Deferred Federal 2,055 (3,977) 8,327 State (490) (2,802) 1,758 Total income taxes on income $ 114 $(12,084) $15,538 31 FIELDCREST CANNON, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Tabular Amounts in thousands except per share (11) INCOME TAXES (CONTINUED) The income tax effect of items which altered the Company's effective income tax rate from the statutory federal rate were as follows: 1996 1995 1994 Amount Percent Amount Percent Amount Percent Tax at statutory rate $ 411 35.0% $ (9,733) 35.0% $16,199 35.0% State taxes, net (233 ) (19.8) (1,623) 5.8 2,037 4.4 Tax credits (36 ) (3.1) (543) 2.0 (567) (1.2) Prior years tax settlements -- -- -- -- (1,714) (3.7) Other (28 ) (2.4) (185) .7 (417) (.9) Net taxes $ 114 9.7% $(12,084) 43.5% $15,538 33.6% At December 31, 1996, the Company has net operating loss carryforwards of $51.2 million for state income tax purposes that expire in 2000 through 2011 and alternative minimum tax credit carryforwards of $2.7 million. 32 FIELDCREST CANNON, INC. REPORT OF MANAGEMENT The integrity and objectivity of the information presented in this Annual Report are the responsibility of Fieldcrest Cannon, Inc. management. The financial statements contained in this report were audited by Ernst & Young LLP independent auditors, whose report appears on this page. The Company maintains a system of internal controls which is independently assessed on an ongoing basis through a program of internal audits. These controls include the selection and training of the Company's employees, organizational arrangements that provide a division of responsibilities and communication programs explaining the Company's policies and standards. We believe this system provides reasonable assurance that transactions are executed in accordance with management's authorization; that transactions are appropriately recorded to permit preparation of financial statements that, in all material respects, are presented in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles; and that assets are properly accounted for and safeguarded against loss from unauthorized use. The Board of Directors pursues its responsibilities for the financial statements through its Audit Committee, which consists solely of directors who are neither officers nor employees of the Company. The Audit Committee meets periodically with the independent public accountants, the internal auditors and representatives of management to discuss internal accounting control, auditing and financial reporting matters. Thomas R. Staab VICE PRESIDENT AND CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER REPORT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS The Shareowners and Board of Directors of Fieldcrest Cannon, Inc. We have audited the accompanying consolidated statement of financial position of Fieldcrest Cannon, Inc. as of December 31, 1996 and 1995, and the related consolidated statements of operations and retained earnings, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1996. 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, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of Fieldcrest Cannon, Inc. at December 31, 1996 and 1995, and the consolidated results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1996, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. Greensboro, North Carolina January 31, 1997 33 FIELDCREST CANNON, INC. SELECTED FINANCIAL AND STATISTICAL DATA In thousands of dollars, except per share data SUMMARY OF CONTINUING OPERATIONS (A) 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 Net sales $1,092,496 $1,095,193 $1,063,731 $1,000,107 $981,773 Depreciation $ 35,180 $ 30,248 $ 28,779 $ 29,524 $ 29,480 Operating income (loss) 22,439(b) (112)(c) 70,538 53,563 60,855 Income (loss) from continuing operations 1,060(b) (15,725)(c) 30,745(d) 14,966(e) 15,690(f) PER SHARE OF COMMON STOCK: Primary income (loss) from continuing operation $ (.38)(b) $ (2.28)(c) $ 3.02(d) $ 1.24(e) $ 1.39(f) Fully diluted income (loss) --(b) --(c) 2.51(d) --(e) --(f) Shareowners' equity 15.41 15.68 17.84 13.79 23.76 Number of employees 11,312 13,610 13,926 14,090 14,636 Number of shareholders 1,953 2,082 2,191 2,401 2,735 SUMMARY OF FINANCIAL POSITION Capital expenditures $ 33,386 $ 64,153 $ 51,929 $ 21,594 $ 20,687 Working capital 229,010 268,477 282,461 262,326 296,580 Total assets 768,493 812,946 782,665 740,446 863,991 Long-term debt 311,496 365,262 317,744 294,611 353,419 Shareowners' equity 215,755 215,431 232,202 193,330 284,478 FINANCIAL RATIOS Return on net sales .1% (1.4)% 2.9% 1.5% 1.6% Return on average shareowners' equity .5 (7.0) 14.5 6.8 6.0 Return on average total assets .1 (2.0) 4.0 1.9 1.8 (a) On July 30, 1993, the Company completed the sale of its carpet and rug operations. Accordingly, the summary of continuing operations excludes the discontinued carpet and rug operations for all periods presented. (b) Reflects pre-tax restructuring charges of $8.1 million which reduced 1996 income by $5.1 million, or $.56 per common share. Fully diluted income per share is not presented as effects are anti-dilutive. (c) Reflects pre-tax restructuring charges of $20.5 million which increased 1995 loss by $12.1 million, or $1.37 per common share. Fully diluted income per share is not presented as effects are anti-dilutive. (d) 1994 income was increased $1.7 million, or $.20 per common share on a primary basis and $.12 per share on a fully diluted basis, as a result of favorable settlements of prior years income taxes. (e) Reflects pre-tax restructuring charges of $10 million and income tax adjustments of $1.4 million which reduced 1993 income from continuing operations before accounting changes by $7.5 million, or $.64 per common share. The Company adopted FAS 106, "Employers' Accounting for Postretirement Benefits other than Pensions" and FAS 109, "Accounting for Income Taxes", effective January 1, 1993. The cumulative effect of these accounting changes reduced 1993 net income by $70.3 million, or $5.99 per common share. Fully diluted income per share is not presented as effects are anti-dilutive. Financial ratios for 1993 are based on income from continuing operations before accounting changes. (f) Before extraordinary charge for early retirement of debt which reduced 1992 net income by $5.2 million, or $.46 per common share. Fully diluted income per share is not presented as effects are anti-dilutive. Financial ratios for 1992 are based on income from continuing operations before the extraordinary charge. 34