SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549 FORM 10-Q QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the quarterly period ended June 30, 1998 Commission file number: 000-24669 HOMETOWN AUTO RETAILERS, INC. (Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter) Delaware 06-1501703 (State or other jurisdiction of (IRS Employer incorporation or organization) Identification No.) 831 Straits Turnpike Watertown, CT 06795 (Address of principal executive offices) (Zip code) (860) 945-4900 (Registrant's telephone number including area code) Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes |X| No |_| Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the registrant's classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date. Title Outstanding ------------------------------------------------- ----------- Common Stock, Class A, par value $.001 per share 2,040,000 Common Stock, Class B, par value $.001 per share 3,760,000 2 FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS When used in the Quarterly Report on Form 10Q, the words "may", "will", "should", "expect", "believe", "anticipate", "continue", "estimate", "project", "intend" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Exchange Act regarding events, conditions and financial trends that may affect the Company's future plans of operations, business strategy, results of operations and financial condition. The Company wishes to ensure that such statements are accompanied by meaningful cautionary statements pursuant to the safe harbor established in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Prospective investors are cautioned that any forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks and uncertainties and that actual results may differ materially from those included within the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors including the ability of the Company to consummate, and the terms of, acquisitions. Such forward-looking statements should, therefore, be considered in light of various important factors, including those set forth herein and others set forth from time to time in the Company's reports and registration statements filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission"). The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update such forward-looking statements. 3 PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION ITEM 1. Financial Statements HOMETOWN AUTO RETAILERS, INC. BASIS OF PRESENTATION In July 1998, Hometown Auto Retailers, Inc. ("Hometown" or the "Company") completed simultaneously the combination of three automobile dealership groups (the "Core Operating Companies"), the acquisition of certain assets and liabilities of another three dealerships (the "Acquisitions") and an initial public offering (the "Offering"). The Core Operating Companies were acquired in exchange for common stock of Hometown Auto Retailers, Inc. The Acquisitions were acquired for cash. The accompanying historical balance sheets as of June 30, 1998 and December 31, 1997, the statements of operations for the three months and six months ended June 30, 1998 and 1997, and the statements of cash flows for the six months ended June 30, 1998 and 1997, presents the operations of E.R.R. Enterprises, Inc. ("Shaker"), one of the Core Operating Companies which has been identified as the accounting acquiror for financial presentation purposes in accordance with SAB No. 97 because its stockholders hold the single largest voting interest subsequent to the Offering. The Company believes that; (i) the accompanying financial information contains all the material adjustments necessary to fairly present its financial position as of June 30, 1998; (ii) all adjustments necessary to present fairly the results for the interim periods have been made; and (iii) all adjustments are of a normal recurring nature. Operating results of interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results for full year periods. The unaudited pro forma financial information presented in footnote 5, "Subsequent Events", does not purport to be indicative of the financial position or operating results which would have been achieved had the acquisitions taken place at the dates indicated and should not be construed as representative of the Company's financial position or results of operations for any future date or period. The Company's operations are subject to seasonal variations, with the second and third quarters generally contributing more revenues and operating profit than the first and fourth quarters. This seasonality is driven primarily by: (i) factors related to the automobile and truck manufacturers from which the Company holds franchises ("Manufacturer"), primarily the historical timing of major Manufacturer incentive programs and model changeovers, (ii) weather-related factors, which primarily affect parts and service and (iii) consumer buying patterns. 4 HOMETOWN AUTO RETAILERS, INC. (Consisting exclusively of financial information of E.R.R. Enterprises, a predecessor) UNAUDITED BALANCE SHEETS (in thousands) June 30, December 31, 1998 1997 ------- ------------ Current Assets Cash and cash equivalents ....................... $ 3,678 $ 3,539 Accounts receivable, net ........................ 1,239 914 Inventories ..................................... 6,286 7,609 Prepaid expenses and other current assets ....... 642 234 Deferred income taxes ........................... 167 -- ------- ------- Total current assets ......................... 12,012 12,296 Property and equipment, net ........................ 1,256 1,346 Due from related parties ........................... 288 294 Deferred income taxes .............................. 488 -- Other assets ....................................... -- 106 ------- ------- Total Assets ................................. $14,044 $14,042 ======= ======= Current Liabilities Floor plan notes payable ........................ 4,875 6,761 Accounts payable and accrued expenses ........... 857 463 Accrued compensation due to owners .............. 2,500 -- Current maturities of long-term debt ............ 50 278 Other current bank borrowings ................... 83 85 Income taxes payable ............................ 146 146 ------- ------- Total current liabilities .................... 8,511 7,733 Long-term debt ..................................... 290 107 Long-term deferred income taxes .................... 164 164 Due to related parties ............................. 912 888 Other long-term liabilities ........................ 52 52 Stockholders' Equity Common stock, Class A, $5.00 par value, 10,000 shares authorized, 7,218 issued and outstanding; Common stock, Class B, $1.84 stated value, 18,045 authorized, issued and outstanding .............. 69 69 Retained earnings ............................... 4,046 5,029 ------- ------- Total stockholders' equity ................... 4,115 5,098 ------- ------- Total liabilities and stockholders' equity ... $14,044 $14,042 ======= ======= The accompanying Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements. 5 HOMETOWN AUTO RETAILERS, INC, (Consisting exclusively of financial information of E.R.R. Enterprises, a predecessor) UNAUDITED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (in thousands, except per share data) For the Three Months For the Six Months Ended June 30, Ended June 30, -------------------- ------------------ 1998 1997 1998 1997 --------- --------- -------- -------- Revenues New vehicle sales ................ $ 7,482 $ 7,748 $ 13,449 $ 14,693 Used vehicle sales ............... 5,243 5,875 10,966 10,980 Parts and service sales .......... 1,623 1,665 3,236 3,339 Other dealership revenues, net ... 474 451 915 830 -------- -------- -------- -------- Total revenues ................ 14,822 15,739 28,566 29,842 Cost of sales New vehicle sales ................ 7,027 7,268 12,617 13,800 Used vehicle sales ............... 4,742 5,437 9,879 9,854 Parts and service sales .......... 848 891 1,733 1,799 -------- -------- -------- -------- Cost of sales ....................... 12,617 13,596 24,229 25,453 -------- -------- -------- -------- Gross profit .................. 2,205 2,143 4,337 4,389 Selling, general and administrative expenses ......................... 1,713 1,723 5,907 3,493 -------- -------- -------- -------- Income (loss) from operations . 492 420 (1,570) 896 Other income (expense) Interest expense, net ............ (43) (64) (100) (140) Other income (expense), net ...... 39 (1) 33 5 -------- -------- -------- -------- Income (loss) before taxes .... 488 355 (1,637) 761 Provision (benefit) for income taxes 196 142 (654) 304 -------- -------- -------- -------- Net income (loss) ............. $ 292 $ 213 $ (983) $ 457 ======== ======== ======== ======== Earnings per share, basic and diluted (see note 3) ...................... $ 11.56 $ 8.43 $ (38.91) $ 18.09 Weighted average shares (see note 3) ...................... 25,263 25,263 25,263 25,263 The accompanying Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements. 6 HOMETOWN AUTO RETAILERS, INC. (Consisting exclusively of financial information of E.R.R. Enterprises, a predecessor) UNAUDITED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (in thousands) For the Six Months Ended June 30, --------------------------------- 1998 1997 ------- ------- CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: Net income (loss) ..................................................... $ (983) $ 457 Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities - Depreciation and amortization ...................................... 82 97 Gain on sale of assets ............................................. (28) -- Deferred income taxes .............................................. (655) 89 Changes in assets and liabilities: Accounts receivable, net ........................................ (325) (153) Inventories ..................................................... 1,323 (119) Prepaid expenses and other current assets ....................... (408) (158) Other assets .................................................... 106 61 Floor plan notes payable ........................................ (1,886) 5 Accounts payable, accrued expenses and accrued compensation ..... 2,894 577 Income taxes payable ............................................ -- (30) Other long term liabilities ..................................... -- 188 ------- ------- Net cash provided by operating activities .......................... 120 1,014 CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: Purchase of property and equipment ................................. (18) (106) Proceeds from sale of property and equipment ....................... 54 -- ------- ------- Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities ................ 36 (106) CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: Principal payments of long-term debt ............................... (45) (195) Other current bank borrowings, net of repayments ................... (2) 13 Due from/to related parties ........................................ 30 (99) ------- ------- Net cash used in financing activities .............................. (17) (281) NET INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS ............................. 139 627 CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, beginning of period ........................ 3,539 3,081 ------- ------- CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS, end of period ............................. $ 3,678 $ 3,708 ======= ======= SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION: Cash paid for - Interest $ 76 $ 94 Cash paid for - Taxes -- 99 The accompanying Notes to Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements. 7 HOMETOWN AUTO RETAILERS, INC. NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 1. BUSINESS AND ORGANIZATION: Business of Hometown Auto Retailers, Inc. ("Hometown" or the "Company") Hometown was founded on March 10, 1997 as Dealerco, Inc., a New York Corporation, and later changed its state of incorporation by merging into Hometown Auto Retailers, Inc., a Delaware Corporation. Hometown's purpose is to consolidate and operate automobile dealerships in the Northeast, primarily in New Jersey and New England. Hometown was formed to combine three dealership groups (the Core Operating Companies) located in New Jersey and Connecticut, acquire three other dealerships (the Acquisitions) located in Connecticut, Vermont and Massachusetts, complete an initial public offering (the Offering) of its Common Stock and, subsequent to the Offering, continue to acquire, through merger or purchase, additional dealerships to expand its regional operations. Hometown and each of the Core Operating Companies and Acquisitions are autonomous and independent without any common ownership until July 31, 1998. 2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES: Basis of Presentation For financial statement presentation purposes, as required by the Securities and Exchange Commission, E.R.R. Enterprises, one of the Core Operating Companies, has been identified as the accounting acquirer in the July 1998 combination. New Accounting Pronouncements In June 1998, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 133, Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities. The statement establishes accounting and reporting standards requiring that every derivative instrument (including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts) be recorded in the balance sheet as either an asset or liability and be measured at its fair value. Additionally, any changes in the derivative's fair value are to be recognized currently in earnings, unless specific hedge accounting criteria are met. This statement is effective for fiscal years beginning after June 15, 1999. The Company does not believe that adoption of this statement will have a material impact on its financial statements. 3. EARNINGS PER SHARE: Statement No. 128 "Earnings Per Share" ("SFAS 128") requires the presentation of basic earnings per share and diluted earnings per share. "Basic earnings per share" represents net income divided by the weighted average shares outstanding. "Diluted earnings per share" represents net income divided by weighted average shares outstanding adjusted for the incremental dilution of potentially dilutive securities. As of June 30, 1998 and 1997, the Company does not have any potentially dilutive securities. For this presentation, the "Earnings per share" and "Weighted average shares" are those of E.R.R. Enterprises, Inc. and are based on the outstanding shares of E.R.R. Enterprises, Inc. 8 HOMETOWN AUTO RETAILERS, INC. NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued) 4. INVENTORIES: New, used and demonstrator vehicles are stated at the lower of cost or market, determined on a specific unit basis. Parts and accessories are stated at the lower of cost (determined on a first-in, first-out basis) or market. Inventories consist of the following: 6/30/98 12/30/97 ------- -------- (in thousands) New Vehicles $3,057 $4,623 Used Vehicles 2,648 2,420 Parts, accessories and other 581 566 ------ ------ Total Inventories $6,286 $7,609 ====== ====== 5. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS: In July 1998, Hometown Auto Retailers, Inc. ("Hometown" or the "Company") completed simultaneously its combination of the Core Operating Companies, the Acquisitions and the Offering. The Core Operating Companies were acquired in exchange for common stock of Hometown Auto Retailers, Inc. and the Acquisitions were acquired for cash. The following table sets forth the consideration paid to the stockholders of the Core Operating Companies (excluding E.R.R. Enterprises), the Acquisitions and the associated transaction costs, along with the estimated "Excess of purchase price over net tangible assets acquired". For presentation purposes, Muller represents the total of Muller Toyota, Muller Chevrolet, and William Chevrolet (a discontinued operation): Associated Westwood Muller Bay State Brattleboro Pride Costs Total -------- ------ --------- ----------- ----- ---------- ----- ( in thousands, except share data) Cash .................................. $ -- $ -- $ 3,000 $ 2,690 $ 878 $ 175 $ 6,743 Common Stock .......................... 6,110 6,110 -- -- -- -- 12,220 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- Total 6,110 6,110 3,000 2,690 878 175 18,963 Less: Book value of net tangible assets acquired .............................. 1,619 409 377 109 323 -- 2,837 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- Excess of purchase price over net book value of assets acquired .............. $ 4,491 $ 5,701 $ 2,623 $ 2,581 $ 555 $ 175 $ 16,126 ========== ========== ========== ========== ========== ========== ========== Number of shares 940,000 940,000 -- -- -- -- 1,880,000 9 HOMETOWN AUTO RETAILERS, INC. NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued) 5. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS (Continued): The 1998 pro forma combined data presented on the following pages represents a summation of certain data on an historical basis on the assumption that the combination of the Core Operating Companies, the Acquisitions, and the Offering had occurred on January 1, 1997, and includes the effects of the specific pro forma adjustments detailed below. This data may not be comparable to and may not be indicative of Hometown's post-combination results of operations because the acquired dealerships were not under common control of management. The pro forma adjustments primarily relate to: (a) amortization of the "excess purchase price over net tangible assets acquired" using an estimated useful life of 40 years; (b) adjusting compensation expense and management fees to the level that certain management employees and owners of the Core Operating Companies and the Acquisitions will contractually receive subsequent to the closing of the combination and the Acquisitions; (c) adjusting rent expense to reflect newly negotiated fair market value leases; (d) adjustments to interest income on Cash and Cash Equivalents not realized as part of the combination and the Acquisitions offset by the reduction of interest expense on certain long-term debt that will be liquidated out of proceeds of the Offering and the reduction of interest expense on debt and leases not assumed as part of the transactions with the acquired dealerships; (e) adjustments to interest expense resulting from the repayment of floor plan obligations with proceeds from the Offering and the interest savings for refinancing the balance of the floor plan obligations with a commercial lender; (f) adjustments for incremental provision for federal and state income taxes relating to the pro forma adjustments described above and the loss of S-corporation status of Muller Toyota, Muller Chevrolet, Bay State and Brattleboro; (g) the accounting adjustments required to reflect the purchase of the Core Operating Companies and the Acquisitions, the recording of the associated transaction costs and the settlement of certain related party payables and a distribution to the owners of Shaker; (h) the adjustments needed to record the receipt of the net Offering; (i) adjustments to reflect the settlement of the cash portion of the acquisitions; and (j) adjustments to reflects the pay-down of certain long-term debt; and (k) adjustment to reflects the pay-down of floor plan obligations with proceeds from the Offering. 10 HOMETOWN AUTO RETAILERS, INC. NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued) 5. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS (Continued): The following table of summary pro forma unaudited financial data presents, for the three months ended March 31, 1998 and June 30, 1998 and for the six months ended June 30, 1998, certain combined pro forma financial data as if the combinations of the Core Operating Companies, the Acquisitions and the Offering had occurred as of January 1, 1997. For the Three Months For the Three Months For the Six Months Ended March 31, 1998 Ended June 30, 1998 Ended June 30, 1998 --------------------------- ------------------------ --------------------- % of Total % of Total % of Total Amount Revenue Amount Revenue Amount Revenue ----------- ------------ ---------- ------------ -------- ---------- (in thousands, except per share data) Income Statement Data: Revenues New vehicle sales ........................... $ 31,430 54.1% $ 36,574 58.2% $ 68,004 56.2% Used vehicle sales .......................... 19,861 34.2% 19,583 31.1% 39,444 32.6% Parts and service sales ..................... 5,262 9.1% 5,182 8.2% 10,444 8.6% Other dealership revenues, net .............. 1,500 2.6% 1,551 2.5% 3,051 2.5% ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- Total revenues ........................... 58,053 100.0% 62,890 100.0% 120,943 100.0% Cost of sales .................................. 50,275 86.6% 54,891 87.3% 105,166 87.0% ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- Gross profit ............................. 7,778 13.4% 7,999 12.7% 15,777 13.0% Amortization of excess of purchase price over net tangible assets acquired .... 100 0.2% 99 0.2% 199 0.2% Selling, general and administrative expenses ... 5,988 10.3% 6,128 9.7% 12,116 10.0% ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- Income from operations ................... 1,690 2.9% 1,772 2.8% 3,462 2.9% Other income (expense) Interest expense, net ....................... (240) -0.4% (207) -0.3% (447) -0.4% Other expense, net .......................... (11) 0.0% (22) 0.0% (33) 0.0% ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- Income before taxes ...................... 1,439 2.5% 1,543 2.5% 2,982 2.5% Provision for income taxes ..................... 576 1.0% 617 1.0% 1,193 1.0% ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- Net income ............................... $ 863 1.5% $ 926 1.5% $ 1,789 1.5% =========== =========== =========== =========== =========== =========== Earnings per share, basic and diluted (see note 3) ..................... $ 0.15 $ 0.16 $ 0.31 Weighted average shares ........................ 5,800,000 5,800,000 5,800,000 Other Data: Retail new vehicles sold ....................... 1,195 1,416 2,611 Retail used vehicles sold ...................... 1,094 1,065 2,159 11 HOMETOWN AUTO RETAILERS, INC. NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued) 5. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS (Continued): The following table of summary pro forma unaudited balance sheet data presents, for the six months ended June 30, 1998, certain combined pro forma financial data as if the combinations of the Core Operating Companies, the Acquisitions and the Offering had occurred as of January 1, 1997. June 30, 1998 -------------- (in thousands) Current Assets Cash and cash equivalents ................................... $ 2,511 Accounts receivable, net .................................... 3,583 Inventories ................................................. 24,822 Prepaid expenses and other current assets ................... 71 Deferred income taxes ....................................... 461 ------- Total current assets ..................................... 31,448 Property and equipment, net .................................... 3,008 Receivable from finance companies .............................. 1,111 Due from related parties ....................................... 469 Deferred income taxes .......................................... 488 Excess of purchase price over net tangible assets acquired ..... 16,126 Other assets ................................................... 439 ------- Total Assets ............................................. $53,089 ======= Current Liabilities Floor plan notes payable .................................... $16,019 Accounts payable and accrued expenses ....................... 3,243 Current maturities of long-term debt ........................ 96 Other current bank borrowings ............................... 1,283 Income taxes payable ........................................ 607 ------- Total current liabilities ................................ 21,248 Long-term debt ................................................. 243 Long-term deferred income taxes ................................ 283 Due to related parties ......................................... 1,061 Other long-term liabilities .................................... 236 Stockholders' Equity Preferred stock, $.001 par value, 2,000,000 shares authorized, no shares issued and outstanding .......................... -- Common stock, Class A, $.001 par value, 24,000,000 shares authorized,2,040,000 issued and outstanding; ................ 2 Common stock, Class B, $.001 par value, 3,760,000 shares authorized, issued and outstanding .......................... 4 Additional paid-in capital .................................. 26,084 Retained earnings ........................................... 3,928 ------- Total stockholders' equity ............................... 30,018 ------- Total liabilities and stockholders' equity ............... $53,089 ======= 12 ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS. The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the Financial Statements and related notes thereto appearing elsewhere in the Company's attached Form 10Q for the three months and six months ended June 30, 1998. The Financial Statements presented are for E.R.R. Enterprises, Inc. (Shaker), one of the Core Operating Companies. Until July 31, 1998, Hometown Auto Retailers, Inc. and each of the Core Operating Companies and Acquisitions were autonomous and independent without any common ownership. The Company - Pro Forma Information Overview In July 1998, Hometown Auto Retailers, Inc. ("Hometown" or the "Company") completed simultaneously its acquisition of three automobile dealership groups (the "Core Operating Companies"), the acquisition of certain assets and liabilities of another three dealerships (the "Acquisitions") and an initial public offering (the "Offering"). The Core Operating Companies were acquired in exchange for common stock of Hometown Auto Retailers, Inc. The Acquisitions were acquired for cash. In future financial statements, the Exchange and the Acquisitions will be accounted for using the purchase method of accounting. E.R.R. Enterprises, Inc. (Shaker), one of the Core Operating Companies, was identified as the acquirer for pro forma financial statement presentation purposes in accordance with SAB No. 97 because its stockholders received the largest number of shares of Class B Common Stock in the Exchange, which shares represent the single largest voting interest in the Company. Until July 31, 1998, Hometown Auto Retailers, Inc. conducted no operations under its own name and its predecessor companies generated all revenues. Operating Strategy Since July 31, 1998, the Company has begun to integrate certain functions and to implement practices that have been successful at other franchises, including those of the Core Operating Companies, and in other retail segments ("best practices"). This integration and implementation of best practices may present opportunities to increase revenues and reduce costs but may also necessitate additional costs and expenditures for corporate administration, including expenses necessary to implement the Company's acquisition strategy. These various costs and possible cost-savings and revenue enhancements may make historical operating results not comparable to, or indicative of, future performance. 13 Pro Forma Combined Revenues, Gross Profit and Gross Profit Percentage to Revenues On a pro forma combined basis, the revenue by category and the percent of total revenue for Hometown for the first quarter of 1998 and the second quarter of 1998 are as follows: For the three months ended For the three months ended March 31, 1998 June 30, 1998 --------------------------- --------------------------- Revenue % of Total Revenue % of Total (in thousands) Revenue in thousands) Revenue -------------- ---------- ------------- ---------- New vehicle $31,430 54.1% $36,574 58.2% Used vehicle 19,861 34.2% 19,583 31.1% Parts and service 5,262 9.1% 5,182 8.2% F&I and other 1,500 2.6% 1,551 2.5% ------- ----- ------- ----- Total Revenue $58,053 100.0% $62,890 100.0% ======= ===== ======= ===== Revenue from the sale of new vehicles increased 16.4%, from 54.1% to 58.2% of total revenue. The increase was primarily due to increased sales of new Lincolns, Mercurys and Toyotas prompted by aggressive manufacturer's rebates and incentives for those brands. On a pro forma combined basis, the gross profit by category and the percent of total gross profit for Hometown for the first quarter of 1998, and the second quarter of 1998, are as follows: For the three months ended For the three months ended March 31, 1998 June 30, 1998 ---------------------------- ---------------------------- Gross Profit % of Total Gross Profit % of Total (in thousands) Gross Profit (in thousands) Gross Profit -------------- ------------ -------------- ------------ New vehicle $1,807 23.2% $2,292 28.7% Used vehicle 1,993 25.6% 1,675 20.9% Parts and service 2,478 31.9% 2,481 31.0% F&I and other 1,500 19.3% 1,551 19.4% ------ ------ ------ ------ Total Gross Profit $7,778 100.0% $7,999 100.0% ====== ====== ====== ====== New vehicle gross profit as a percent of total gross profit increased from 23.2% for the three months ended March 31, 1998 to 28.7% for the three months ended June 30, 1998. Used vehicle gross profit as a percent of total gross profit decreased from 25.6% for the three months ended March 31, 1998 to 20.9% for the three months ended June 30, 1998. The increase in new vehicle gross profit percent of total and the decrease in used vehicle gross profit percent of total reflects the strong increase in new car sales between the two periods and the resulting change in mix between new and used vehicles. 14 On a pro forma combined basis, the gross profit percentage to revenues by category for the first quarter of 1998, and the second quarter of 1998, are as follows: For the three months For the three months ended March 31, 1998 ended June 30, 1998 -------------------- -------------------- New vehicle 5.7% 6.3% Used vehicle 10.0% 8.6% Parts and service 47.1% 47.9% F&I and other 100.0% 100.0% Total Gross Profit Percent to Revenue 13.4% 12.7% The following comments explain the differences between the three months ended June 30, 1998 and the three months ended March 31, 1998. The new vehicle gross profit percentage increased by .6 percent primarily due to the incremental sales of certain new Toyota models coupled with the favorable impact on gross profit percentage from the factory incentives programs that were increased during the current quarter. The decrease in used vehicle gross profit percentage of 1.4 percent was primarily due to competitive pricing between automobile dealerships on purchasing of quality used cars for resale and increases in reconditioning costs to get the vehicles ready for sale. In most cases, the dealerships were unable to pass the incremental costs onto the customers. Parts and service gross profit percentage increased by .8 percent primarily due to favorable absorption of service labor on reconditioning costs charged to the used vehicle cost of sales. Core Operating Companies' and Acquisitions' Revenue Comparison for the six months ended June 30, 1998 against 1997 Total revenue for the Core Operating Companies and the Acquisitions for the six months ended June 30, 1998, compared to total revenue for the six months ended June 30, 1997, is as follows: For the six months ended June 30, ----------------------------------------------------------- 1997 1998 ---------------------------- ---------------------------- Core Operating Companies Revenue % of Total Revenue % of Total and Acquisitions (in thousands) Revenue (in thousands) Revenue ------------- ---------- -------------- ------------ E.R.R. Enterprises (Shaker) $ 29,842 25.3% $ 28,566 23.6% Westwood 26,532 22.5% 35,416 29.3% Muller 30,017 25.4% 29,196 24.1% Brattleboro 12,999 11.0% 10,962 9.1% Bay State 12,664 10.7% 11,648 9.6% Pride 6,093 5.1% 5,155 4.3% -------- ----- -------- ----- Total Revenue $118,147 100.0% 120,943 100.0% ======== ===== ======== ===== Total revenue for the Core Operating Companies and acquisitions increased by $2,796,000 for the six months ended June 30, 1998, when compared to the six months ended June 30, 1997, an increase of 2.4%. The increase was due primarily to increased new car sales at Westwood driven by sales of the new model Lincoln Towncar. 15 Selling, General and Administration The pro forma combination of Hometown's selling, general and administration expenses takes into account various adjustments made to the Company's historical financial statements for changes for compensation of the owners and adjustments for the negotiated fair market valued leases. Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted On a pro forma combined basis, the earnings per share for the three months ended June 30, 1998 and for the six months ended June 30, 1998 are $.16 and $.31, respectively. As of June 30, 1998, the Company does not have any potentially dilutive securities. Weighted Average Shares On a pro forma combined basis, the weighted average shares for the three months ended June 30, 1998 and for the six months ended June 30, 1998 are both 5,800,000 shares. The weighted average shares represent the sum of the outstanding Class A share (2,040,000) and Class B shares (3,760,000). Liquidity and Capital Resources. The Company's primary source for financing its vehicle inventory is "floor plan" financing arrangements with the Manufacturers. The floor plan arrangements permit the Company to finance its new and used vehicle inventory and the resulting liability is secured by the related inventory. Each dealership maintains a floor plan financing line with its respective Manufacturer, with the exception of Muller Chevrolet which has a floor plan line financed through a bank. Interest rates on these lines vary from a low of 8.9% to a high of 10.5%. The combined interest expense on floor plan notes payable, before Manufacturers' interest assistance, totaled approximately $.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 1998 and $.7 million for the three months ended June 30, 1998. Manufacturer interest assistance, which is recorded as a reduction of interest expense, totaled approximately $.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 1998 and $.3 million for the three months ended June 30, 1998. The pro forma balance of the Company's floor plan lines at June 30, 1998 was $22,519,000 before the pay-down of floor plan obligations. It is anticipated that $6,500,000 of the proceeds from the Offering will be applied to the floor plan liability accounts until the funds are needed for future acquisitions. Acquisitions Since the Company was organized, in March 1997, it has entered into three acquisition agreements providing for the purchase, at an aggregate price of $6.7 million plus the assumption of certain liabilities, of three dealerships located in Connecticut, Massachusetts and Vermont. These three acquisitions add $27,765,000 and $1,242,000 respectively, to the Company's pro forma revenues and income before income taxes for the six months ended June 30, 1998. As indicated above, these Acquisitions have closed. Brattleboro. On July 2, 1997, the Company entered into an agreement to purchase the business and certain assets of Brattleboro Chrysler Plymouth Dodge, Inc. ("Brattleboro") for a purchase price of $2.7 million and the assumption of certain of Brattleboro's liabilities. On the closing of this Acquisition, the Company will own Brattleboro a dealership in Vermont which holds franchises to sell the Chrysler, Dodge and Plymouth brands. The Company also agreed to enter into a five-year lease for property owned by an affiliate of Brattleboro at a monthly rental of $20,000 with a five year renewal option at the same rental and an option to purchase the premises at its then fair market value, but not less than $1.5 million. 16 In addition, the Company agreed to enter into an employment agreement with Thomas E. Cosenzi ("Cosenzi"), a key employee of Brattleboro, at an annual base salary of $150,000 plus a bonus, payable monthly, equal to 5% of the income before income taxes of Brattleboro and any other business managed by Cosenzi for Hometown up to $800,000 and 10% of the pre-tax income of such business in excess of $800,000. The employment agreement will also provide that Cosenzi will be granted a six-year incentive stock option to purchase such number of shares of Hometown's Common Stock as have an aggregate value of $500,000, based on the per share price in the Offering. Bay State. On August 14, 1997, the Company entered into an agreement to purchase the business and certain assets of Leominster Lincoln Mercury, Inc., doing business as Bay State Lincoln Mercury ("Bay State"), for a purchase price of $3.0 million and the assumption of certain of Bay State's liabilities. On the closing of this Acquisition, the Company will own the Bay State dealership in Framingham, Massachusetts holding franchises to sell the Lincoln and Mercury brands. The Company has entered into fifteen-year lease for property owned by an affiliate of Leominster at a monthly rental of $30,000 during the first five years, $35,000 during the second five years and $38,000 thereafter. Pride. On May 28, 1998, the Company entered into an agreement to purchase the business and certain assets of Pride Auto Center, Inc. ("Pride"), a Jeep/Eagle dealer, for an estimated purchase price of approximately $925,000, including a $55,000 deposit previously paid and $200,000 to be paid through issuance of an 8% promissory note payable in installments over a 36-month period plus the assumption of the floor plan and certain other liabilities. As soon as practicable following the closing, Hometown intends to close the Pride facility and to consolidate its operations with those of another Hometown Jeep/Eagle dealership located less than two miles away. Cyclicality The Company's operations, like the automotive retailing industry in general, are affected by a number of factors relating to general economic conditions, including consumer business cycles, consumer confidence, economic conditions, availability of consumer credit and interest rates. Although the above factors, among others, may affect the Company's business, Hometown believes that the impact on the Company's operations of future negative trends in such factors will be somewhat mitigated by its (i) strong parts, service and collision repair services, (ii) variable cost salary structure, (iii) geographic regional focus, and (iv) product diversity. Seasonality The Company's operations are subject to seasonal variations, with the second and third quarters generally contributing more revenues and operating profit than the first and fourth quarters. This seasonality is driven primarily by: (i) Manufacturer related factors, primarily the historical timing of major Manufacturer incentive programs and model changeovers, (ii) weather-related factors, which primarily affect parts and service and (iii) consumer buying patterns. Effects of Inflation Due to the relatively low levels of inflation experienced in fiscal 1997 and 1998, inflation did not have a significant effect on the results of the Core Operating Companies and the Acquisitions during those periods. 17 New Accounting Pronouncements The Financial Accounting Standards Board has issued the following statement. The Company is currently not affected by this statement, however, when applicable, the Company will adopt the provisions of the statement. In June 1998, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 133, Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities. The statement establishes accounting and reporting standards requiring that every derivative instrument (including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts) be recorded in the balance sheet as either an asset or liability and be measured at its fair value. Additionally, any changes in the derivative's fair value are to be recognized currently in earnings, unless specific hedge accounting criteria are met. This statement is effective for fiscal years beginning after June 15, 1999. The Company does not believe that adoption of this statement will have a material impact on its financial statements. Year 2000 Conversion The Company has assessed the ability of its software and other computer systems to properly utilize dates beyond December 31, 1999 (the "Year 2000 Conversion"). Management believes that the costs of the modifications and conversions required will not be material. However, if the modifications and conversions are not made or not completed in a timely fashion, the failure of its Year 2000 Conversion could have a material adverse effect on the operations of the Company. Although management believes it will not have material Year 2000 Conversion issues, its future operations are dependent upon the ability of its vendors and suppliers to successfully address the Year 2000 Conversion issues. There can be no assurance that the computer systems of other companies upon which the Company's own computer system relies or upon which its business is dependent, will be timely converted, or that failure of another company to convert will not adversely affect the Company. Forward Looking Statement When used in the Quarterly Report on Form 10Q, the words "may", "will", "should", "expect", "believe", "anticipate", "continue", "estimate", "project", "intend" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Exchange Act regarding events, conditions and financial trends that may affect the Company's future plans of operations, business strategy, results of operations and financial condition. The Company wishes to ensure that such statements are accompanied by meaningful cautionary statements pursuant to the safe harbor established in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Prospective investors are cautioned that any forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks and uncertainties and that actual results may differ materially from those included within the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors including the ability of the Company to consummate, and the terms of, acquisitions. Such forward-looking statements should, therefore, be considered in light of various important factors, including those set forth herein and others set forth from time to time in the Company's reports and registration statements filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission"). The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update such forward-looking statements. 18 E.R.R. Enterprises ("Shaker") The following discussion and analysis are based on the historical financial statements of E.R.R. Enterprises, Inc. ("Shaker"). Shaker is one of the three Core Operating Companies of Hometown. Overview. Shaker is a holding company that operates one of the largest dealer groups in Connecticut, consisting of Shaker's Lincoln Mercury, Inc. in Watertown Connecticut; Family Ford, Inc. and Family Rental, Inc. in Waterbury, Connecticut; and Shaker's Jeep/Eagle, Inc. in Waterbury, Connecticut. It also operates Lincoln Mercury Autocare, Inc., a factory authorized free-standing neighborhood automobile maintenance and repair center in Naugatuck, Connecticut. Shaker is a franchised dealer for Lincoln, Mercury, Ford, Jeep, and Eagle cars and trucks. Shaker was originally founded as Shaker Auto Service, an automobile repair shop, in Waterbury, Connecticut in 1930. After World War II, Shaker became an automobile dealer, ultimately being awarded the Jeep, Lincoln Mercury and Ford franchises. Currently, Shaker is owned and operated by a third generation of the Shaker family. Shaker has diverse sources of automotive revenues, including: new car sales, new light truck sales, used car sales, used light truck sales, used cars purchased from the manufacturers, parts sales, service sales, including from Lincoln Mercury Autocare, Inc., finance fees, insurance commissions, extended service contract sales, documentary fees and after-market product sales. Sales revenues include sales to retail customers, other dealers and wholesalers. Other dealership revenue includes revenue from the sale of financing, insurance and extended service contracts, all net of a provision for anticipated chargebacks, and related documentary fees charged to customers. Shaker's gross profit varies as its automotive merchandise mix (the mix between new vehicle sales, used vehicle sales, parts and service sales, and other dealership revenues) changes. The gross margin realized by Shaker on the sale of its products and services generally varies between approximately 13.9% and 15.1% annually, with new vehicle sales generally resulting in the lowest gross margin and parts and service sales generally resulting in the highest gross margin. Revenues from related financing, insurance and service contracts contribute a disproportionate share of gross, operating and pre-tax margins. When Shaker's new vehicle sales increase or decrease at a rate greater than its other revenue sources, its gross profit margin responds inversely. Factors such as seasonality, weather, cyclicality and manufacturers' advertising and incentives may impact Shaker's merchandise mix and therefore affect its gross profit margin. Selling, general and administrative expenses consist primarily of compensation for sales, administrative, finance and general management personnel, rent, marketing, insurance and utilities. Interest expense consists of interest charges on debt, including floor plan inventory financing, net of interest credits received from certain manufacturers and interest income earned. Three Months Ended June 30, 1998 Compared to Three Months Ended June 30, 1997 Revenues Shaker's revenues decreased by $917,000, or 5.8%, from $15,739,000 for the three months ended June 30, 1997 to $14,822,000 for the three months ended June 30, 1998. Most of the decrease was due to a decline in the sales of used cars at Shaker Lincoln Mercury. New vehicle sales at Family Ford decreased by $170,000, or 3.8%, for the three months ended June 30, 1998, when compared to the three months ended June 30, 1997. The decrease is due to a decline in new vehicle unit sales of 12 vehicles, offset by an increase in the average revenue per new vehicle of $397.00. Used vehicle sales at retail at Family Ford increased by $402,000, or 20.3%, for the three months ended June 30, 1998, when compared to the three months ended June 30, 1997. The increase is due to an increase in used 19 vehicle unit sales at retail of 35 vehicles offset by a decrease in the average revenue per used vehicle of $346.00. At Shaker Lincoln Mercury, new vehicle sales declined by $96,000, or 2.9%, for the three months ended June 30, 1998, when compared to the three months ended June 30, 1997. The decrease is due to a decrease in new vehicle unit sales of 6 vehicles, offset by an increase in the average revenue per new vehicle of $363.00. Used vehicle sales at retail at Shaker Lincoln Mercury decreased by $837,000, or 28.9%, for the three months ended June 30, 1998, when compared to the three months ended June 30, 1997. The decrease is due to a decrease in used vehicle retail unit sales of 46 vehicles combined with a decrease in the average revenue per used vehicle of $910.00. In the second quarter of 1998, Shaker Lincoln Mercury experienced difficulty in sourcing high quality used cars, contributing significantly to the sharp sales decline and the decline in average revenue per car. Gross Profit Shaker gross profit increased $62,000 or 2.9%, from $2,143,000 for the three months ended June 30, 1997 to $2,205,000 for the three months ended June 30, 1998. At Family Ford, total gross profit increased by $187,000, or 18.4%, for the three months ended June 30, 1998, when compared to the three months ended June 30, 1997. The increased gross profit was primarily a combination of increased gross profit from the sale of used vehicles at retail and wholesale and the sale of finance, insurance and extended warranty contracts for used vehicles of approximately $194,000, offset by a decrease in the gross profit from the sale of new vehicles of approximately $17,000. Family Ford has focused on sourcing higher quality used cars and increasing used car inventory turns to improve used car sales and gross profit. Gross profit on used cars sold at wholesale increased by $30,000 for the three months ended June 30, 1998, when compared to the three months ended June 30, 1997, due primarily to the introduction of a sealed bid procedure for wholesaling cars at the dealership. At Shaker Lincoln Mercury, total gross profit decreased by $110,000, or 11.1%, for the three months ended June 30, 1998, when compared to the three months ended June 30, 1997. The decreased gross profit was due primarily to a decrease in the gross profit from the sale of used vehicles and the related finance, insurance and extended service contracts of approximately $99,000, combined with a decrease in gross profit from the sale of new vehicles and related finance and insurance of approximately $16,000. Selling, General and Administrative Expense Shaker selling, general and administrative expenses decreased by $10,000, or .6%, from $1,723,000, to $1,713,000, for the three months ended June 30, 1998, when compared to the three months ended June 30, 1997. The primary reason for the decrease was a combination of increased compensation among managers and sales personnel of approximately $73,000 offset by decreases in advertising, promotion, policy work, and demonstrator and loaner expense of approximately $62,000. Interest Expenses, Net Shaker net interest expense decreased by $21,000, or 32.8%, from $64,000, for the three months ended June 30, 1997, to $43,000, for the three months ended June 30, 1998. Net floor plan interest, net of floor plan assistance credits, declined from $118,000 for the three months ended June 30, 1997, to $96,000 for the three months ended June 30, 1998, a decline of 18.6%, primarily reflecting the lower 1998 new vehicle sales volume. Net floor plan interest was offset by net interest income which decreased 1.9%, from $54,000 for the three months ended June 30, 1997, to $53,000 for the three months ended June 30, 1998. Pre-Tax Income Shaker Pre-Tax Income increased from $355,000 for the three months ended June 30, 1997, to $488,000, for the three months ended June 30, 1998, an increase of 37.5%. The increased Pre-Tax Income is 20 primarily due to a combination of $62,000 in increased gross profit, $10,000 in decreased selling, general and administrative expenses, $21,000 in decreased interest expense, and a gain on the sale of an asset of $40,000. Six Months Ended June 30, 1998 Compared to six Months Ended June 30, 1997 Revenues Shaker's revenues decreased by $1,276,000, or 4.3%, from $29,842,000 for the six months ended June 30, 1997 to $28,566,000 for the six months ended June 30, 1998. Most of the decrease was due to a decline in the sales of new cars and trucks, partially offset by an increase in sales of used cars and trucks and related finance, insurance and extended service contracts. New vehicle sales at Family Ford decreased by $1,076,000, or 12.7%, for the six months ended June 30, 1998, when compared to the six months ended June 30, 1997. The decrease is due to a decline in new vehicle unit sales of 55 vehicles, offset by an increase in the average revenue per new vehicle of $195.00. Used vehicle sales at retail at Family Ford increased by $822,000, or 21.4%, for the six months ended June 30, 1998, when compared to the six months ended June 30, 1997. The increase is due to an increase in used vehicle unit sales at retail of 70 vehicles offset by a decrease in the average revenue per used vehicle of $242.00. At Shaker Lincoln Mercury, new vehicle sales declined by $168,000, or 2.7%, for the six months ended June 30, 1998, when compared to the six months ended June 30, 1997. The decrease is due to a decrease in new vehicle unit sales of 12 vehicles, offset by an increase in the average revenue per new vehicle of $540.00. Used vehicle sales at retail at Shaker Lincoln Mercury decreased by $602,000, or 11.1%, for the six months ended June 30, 1998, when compared to the six months ended June 30, 1997. The decrease is due to a decrease in used vehicle retail unit sales of 36 vehicles combined with a decrease in the average revenue per used vehicle of $189.00. Gross Profit Shaker gross profit decreased $52,000 or 1.2%, from $4,389,000 for the six months ended June 30, 1997 to $4,337,000 for the six months ended June 30, 1998. At Family Ford, total gross profit increased by $77,000, or 3.6%, for the six months ended June 30, 1998, when compared to the six months ended June 30, 1997. The increased gross profit was primarily a combination of increased gross profit from the sale of used vehicles at retail and wholesale and the sale of finance, insurance and extended warranty contracts for used vehicles of approximately $169,000, offset by a decrease in the gross profit from the sale of new vehicles of approximately $83,000. At Shaker Lincoln Mercury, total gross profit decreased by $88,000, or 4.5%, for the six months ended June 30, 1998, when compared to the six months ended June 30, 1997. The decreased gross profit was due primarily to a decrease in the gross profit from the sale of used vehicles and the related finance, insurance and extended service contracts of approximately $130,000, offset by an increase in gross profit from the sale of new vehicles of approximately $26,000. Selling, General and Administrative Expense Shaker selling, general and administrative expenses increased by $2,414,000, or 69.1%, from $3,493,000, to $5,907,000, for the six months ended June 30, 1998, when compared to the six months ended June 30, 1997. The principal difference was an increase in owners compensation consisting of a one time bonus distributed among all owner employees of $2,500,000. All other expenses decreased by a net of $86,000, a decrease of 2.5%. The decreased expense was primarily due to realignment of poorly performing advertising programs. 21 Interest Expenses, Net Shaker net interest expense decreased by $40,000, or 28.6%, from $140,000, for the six months ended June 30, 1997, to $100,000, for the six months ended June 30, 1998. Net floor plan interest, net of floor plan assistance credits, declined from $245,000 for the six months ended June 30, 1997, to $200,000 for the six months ended June 30, 1998, a decline of 18.4%, primarily reflecting the lower 1998 new vehicle sales volume. Net floor plan interest was offset by net interest income which decreased 4.8%, from $105,000 for the six months ended June 30, 1997, to $100,000 for the six months ended June 30, 1998. Pre-Tax Income (Loss) Shaker Pre-Tax Income decreased from a profit of $761,000 for the six months ended June 30, 1997, to a loss of $1,637,000, for the six months ended June 30, 1998, an decrease of 315.1%. The decreased Pre-Tax Income is primarily due to a combination of $52,000 in decreased gross profit, a one time bonus distributed among all owner employees of $2,500,000, $86,000 decrease in other selling, general and administrative expenses, $40,000 in decreased interest expense, and a cumulative gain on the sales of assets of $28,000. Liquidity and Capital Resources Shaker's principal sources of liquidity are cash on hand, cash from operations and floor plan financing. Cash and Cash Equivalents Shaker's total cash and cash equivalents at June 30, 1998 were $3.7 million. After giving effect to the pro forma distributed of $2,500,000 to the owner employees, Shaker's total cash and cash equivalents will be reduced to $1.2 million. Cash Flow from Operations For the six months ended June 30, 1998, Shaker generated $120,000 in cash from operating activities as compared to $1,014,000 for the six months ended June 30, 1997. The $894,000 decrease was primarily due to the pay down of the floor plan liability and an increase in prepaid expenses offset by a reduction in vehicle inventories. Floor Plan Financing Shaker obtains floor plan financing for its vehicle inventory from Ford Motor Credit Corporation. As of June 30, 1998, Shaker had approximately $4.9 million of floor plan financing outstanding, bearing interest at prime rate plus 100 basis points. Interest expense on floor plan notes payable, before manufacturer's interest assistance, totaled approximately $.4 million and $0.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 1998 and 1997, respectively. Manufacturer interest assistance, which is recorded as a reduction of interest expense, totaled approximately $0.2 million and $0.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 1998 and 1997, respectively. Cyclicality Shaker's operations, like the automotive retailing industry in general, are affected by a number of factors relating to general economic conditions, including consumer business cycles, consumer confidence, economic conditions, availability of consumer credit and interest rates. Although the above factors, among others, may affect Shaker's business, Shaker believes that the impact on the Shaker's operations of future negative trends in such factors will be somewhat mitigated by its (i) strong parts, service and collision repair services, (ii) variable cost salary structure, (iii) geographic regional focus, and (iv) product diversity. 22 Seasonality Shaker's operations will be subject to seasonal variations, with the second and third quarters generally contributing more revenues and operating profit than the first and fourth quarters. This seasonality is driven primarily by: (i) Manufacturer related factors, primarily the historical timing of major Manufacturer incentive programs and model changeovers, (ii) weather-related factors, which primarily affect parts and service and (iii) consumer buying patterns. Effects of Inflation Due to the relatively low levels of inflation experienced in fiscal 1997 and 1998, inflation did not have a significant effect on the results of Shaker during those periods. 23 PART II. OTHER INFORMATION ITEM 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K a. Exhibits: 1. 27.1 Financial Data Schedule b. Reports on Form 8-K: None. SIGNATURES Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized. Hometown Auto Retailers, Inc. September 11, 1998 By: /s/ Joseph Shaker ------------------ ----------------------------------- Date Joseph Shaker, President and Chief Operating Officer September 11, 1998 By: /s/ John Rudy ------------------ ---------------------------------- Date John Rudy, Chief Financial and Accounting Officer 24