EXHIBIT 13 [GRAPHIC APPEARS HERE] EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED COST PLUS WORLD MARKET 2002 ANNUAL REPORT Our Customers Do. That's why they keep coming back to Cost Plus World Market. Our stores carry more than 10,000 one-of-a-kind products from around the world - everything from distinctive home furnishings, garden accessories, and artwork to gourmet foods, coffee, and wine. And by continuously stocking new, interesting, and reasonably priced items throughout the year, we keep our assortment fresh, our stores intriguing, and our customers pleasantly surprised. Overheard often in our stores: "Hey, look at what I found over here!" Cost Plus World Market sources its products from more than 60 countries and in every category you'll find high-quality items that you won't find anywhere else. Whether it's a six-foot hand-carved giraffe, a new Australian Shiraz or a choice of hardwood dining tables all priced under $500, there's always something unexpected and delightful to be found in every corner of the store. [GRAPHIC APPEARS HERE] [GRAPHIC APPEARS HERE] More than 60% of our product assortment changes over the course of a year. Casual. Unhurried. Fun. Not your typical store environment. For all that's new and exciting in our stores, one thing never changes at Cost Plus World Market: the relaxed and unhurried atmosphere that our customers love. Like an open-air market, the product displays are colorful and inviting. And they are arranged with a kind of organized clutter that encourages shoppers to pick things up, rummage through the shelves, and unearth the unexpected. [GRAPHIC APPEARS HERE] [GRAPHIC APPEARS HERE] Our stores typically have more than 10,000 items in 16,000 square feet designed for leisurely browsing. Shopping this fun can't be this affordable. Except it is. Great products and a fun place to shop - sounds expensive, but at Cost Plus World Market, it's anything but. We've kept quality high and prices low since 1958, and extraordinary value is one surprise that never gets old, no matter how often you visit our stores. It's just one more reason why our customers are so loyal, and why we will continue surpassing their expectations for years to come. [GRAPHIC APPEARS HERE] [GRAPHIC APPEARS HERE] High quality private label and non-branded items are a key part of our eclectic and affordable product mix. We strive to exceed our investors' expectations as well. In 2002, we succeeded. [PHOTO OF MURRAY H. DASHE] MURRAY H. DASHE CHAIRMAN, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER AND PRESIDENT To Our Shareholders: 2002 was a landmark year at Cost Plus World Market. In a year characterized by a weak economy and the threat of tumultuous geopolitical events, total sales grew 21.8% to $692.3 million and net income rose 40.6% to $28.4 million, or $1.28 per fully diluted share. Same store sales were up 5.6%, driven by strong increases in both per-store customer traffic and average sales check. Additionally, we opened 25 new stores and relocated one to end the year with 175 stores in 23 states. But most importantly, we strengthened our operating efficiency at all levels of the company. After spending the past five years investing in new information systems and processes - and our new 500,000 square-foot distribution center near Norfolk, Virginia - the company has now established a strong, flexible, and scaleable operating infrastructure, and during the year 2002 we proved its effectiveness. Excellent Store-Level Performance Our excellent 2002 results reflect the continuing success of Cost Plus World Market's unique retailing concept. In each of our stores you will find a mix of high-quality home furnishings, garden products, kitchenware, gifts, and collectibles, plus a large selection of non-perishable gourmet food and beverage from around the world. The shopping environment is comfortable, relaxed, and fun. We offer unsurpassed value throughout the store. This combination of quality products, reasonable prices and shopping that feels like an adventure has attracted a loyal and steadily growing base of customers who 13 have driven our comparable store sales up an average of 4.9% annually over the past five years. As successful as we have been at executing this concept, however, we are committed to doing better. That's why we keep our product selection fresh by changing approximately sixty percent of our merchandise assortment every year. It's why we continuously test new products and categories to find products that generate excitement and enduring appeal. And it's why we rolled out several new merchandising innovations in 2002 to help foster the atmosphere of discovery and fun that our customers expect. One of these, a theme-oriented promotion called "Global Spirit", featured creative combinations of furniture and handicrafts from Europe, Asia, and Africa. Innovative signage and product descriptions reinforced the global theme, while the inventive displays added new excitement and drama to the stores. "Global Spirit" was very successful, generating increased customer traffic and strong sales results during a traditionally slow time of year for retailers. This promotion was also noteworthy because value-oriented retailers typically rely on price promotions, and rarely succeed in driving sales through a theme promotion. This is especially true in a soft economy, and our success underscores the power of our concept and the special relationship we enjoy with our customers. We look forward to presenting similar theme-oriented promotions in 2003 and beyond. Strong Infrastructure for Growth In Place Clearly the appeal and uniqueness of the Cost Plus World Market concept - coupled with the solid ability of our employees to effectively execute a plan - is a powerful engine for continued sales growth. 14 [GRAPHIC APPEARS HERE] STEADY NATIONAL EXPANSION Cost Plus World Market ended fiscal 2002 with 175 stores in 23 states. We plan to open an additional 29 net new stores in 2003, focusing mainly on the Midwest and Southeast. With our concept proving successful in both large and mid-sized urban markets - and with our significantly expanded distribution infrastructure - we intend to ultimately grow to more than 450 stores nationwide. 15 [GRAPHIC APPEARS HERE] To drive a greater share of this growth to our bottom line, we have spent the past several years implementing new systems and processes that improve the efficiency of all our operations, from inventory management and distribution to real estate to product planning and purchasing. And in mid-2002, we opened the new distribution center in Virginia. The positive effect of these efforts on our overall productivity and profitability has been dramatic. By the end of 2002, for example, the time needed to move merchandise from our distribution centers to store shelves dropped by nearly 65%. Productivity within the distribution centers is also way up: processing of individual units of merchandise 16 FIVE YEAR COMPOUND ANNUAL GROWTH RATE 1998-2002 [GRAPHIC APPEARS HERE] Stores 20% Net Sales 22% Operating Income 20% Net Income 23% is 45% faster, and the advanced processing systems we have installed have increased accuracy while decreasing costs. Our improved systems and responsive inventory controls have also strengthened our merchandising function, enabling the Planning and Allocation Group to collaborate closely with both buying and store personnel. The result has been more strategic, market-oriented - and ultimately, profitable - product planning. The success of "Global Spirit" is an excellent example of how effective this process has become. Building a Truly National Retailer The Cost Plus World Market concept has a much 17 NET SALES dollars in millions [GRAPHIC APPEARS HERE] 98 315.1 99 402.3 00 493.7 01 568.5 02 692.3 OPERATING INCOME dollars in millions [GRAPHIC APPEARS HERE] 98 22.9 99 33.1 00 36.2 01 34.1 02 44.3 broader appeal and much broader potential customer base than even we would have initially suspected. Stores opened in a variety of mid-sized markets - including Boise, Spokane, Bakersfield and Omaha - have been very successful, with store traffic, sales growth, average sales ticket, and customer loyalty meeting or surpassing our goals. And in larger markets, we have found that we can more tightly cluster our locations without significantly taking sales away from an established store. As we pursue both of these avenues for expanding our store base, we are applying increasingly rigorous site-selection criteria. Cost Plus World Market has become one of the country's leading specialty retailers; our real estate strategy has evolved to 18 NET INCOME dollars in millions [GRAPHIC APPEARS HERE] 98 13.2 99 19.7 00 21.7 01 20.2 02 28.4 COMPARABLE STORE SALES percentage increase [GRAPHIC APPEARS HERE] 98 5.5 99 8.6 00 4.6 01 0.3 02 5.6 reflect that market position. In all markets we seek premier locations with substantial parking, adjacency to the highest-traffic thoroughfares, and proximity to other top specialty retailers. This strategy reinforces our position as a destination retailer, and it helps ensure we achieve the kind of strong, sustainable store economics for which we are known. Disciplined Growth to Drive Shareholder Value As our expansion continues, we will adhere to the principles that we have followed successfully in the past: focusing on markets with the greatest potential and growing our store base between 15% and 20% per year. We also intend to finance this growth through internally generated 19 cash flow. The only long-term debt on our balance sheet is capitalized leases. The Board of Directors has endorsed this disciplined approach. They have also approved devoting a portion of our excess cash flow to a share repurchase program. We have already bought back 500,000 shares of Cost Plus World Market common stock under this program and are authorized to repurchase an additional 500,000 shares. In closing, we want to thank all of our employees, partners, customers and shareholders for their continued strong support. 2002 was a watershed year for Cost Plus World Market, and we are committed to building on our momentum in 2003 and beyond. Sincerely, /s/ Murray Dashe Murray H. Dashe Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President March 2003 20 2002 Financial Overview Five Year Summary of Selected Financial Data..................................22 Management's Discussion and Analysis..........................................23 Consolidated Balance Sheets...................................................32 Consolidated Statements of Operations.........................................33 Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity...............................34 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.........................................35 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements....................................36 Independent Auditors' Report..................................................48 Store Locations...............................................................49 Directors and Officers........................................................50 21 Five Year Summary of Selected Financial Data Fiscal Year/1/ ---------------------------------------------------------------------- (In thousands, except per share and selected operating data) 2002 2001 2000 1999 1998 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Statement of Operations Data: Net sales $ 692,301 $ 568,472 $ 493,661 $ 402,292 $ 315,135 Cost of sales and occupancy 450,385 372,948 316,500 255,383 200,023 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Gross profit 241,916 195,524 177,161 146,909 115,112 Selling, general and administrative expenses 192,284 156,832 135,923 110,108 89,261 Store preopening expenses 5,378 4,612 5,044 3,671 2,927 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Income from operations 44,254 34,080 36,194 33,130 22,924 Net interest expense 3,452 962 666 859 1,226 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Income before income taxes 40,802 33,118 35,528 32,271 21,698 Income taxes 12,416 12,916 13,856 12,586 8,462 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Net income $ 28,386 $ 20,202 $ 21,672 $ 19,685 $ 13,236 ====================================================================== Net income per share - basic $ 1.31 $ 0.95 $ 1.04 $ 0.97 $ 0.67 Net income per share - diluted $ 1.28 $ 0.93 $ 1.00 $ 0.93 $ 0.65 Weighted average shares outstanding - basic 21,696 21,355 20,813 20,321 19,724 Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted 22,158 21,756 21,568 21,189 20,363 ====================================================================== Selected Operating Data: Percent of net sales: Gross profit 34.9% 34.4% 35.9% 36.5% 36.5% Selling, general and administrative expenses 27.8% 27.6% 27.5% 27.4% 28.3% Income from operations 6.4% 6.0% 7.3% 8.2% 7.3% Number of stores: Opened during period 26 23 24 18 15 Closed during period 1 - - - - Open at end of period 175 150 127 103 85 Average sales per selling square foot/2/ $ 266 $ 258 $ 273 $ 269 $ 258 Comparable store sales increase/3/ 5.6% 0.3% 4.6% 8.6% 5.5% ====================================================================== Balance Sheet Data (at period end): Working capital $ 142,769 $ 117,381 $ 98,001 $ 80,663 $ 61,031 Total assets 374,659 317,940 252,865 214,699 173,141 Note payable and capital lease obligations, less current portion 37,972 33,216 13,474 14,416 15,110 Total shareholders' equity 225,780 198,709 169,121 138,335 109,403 Current ratio 2.44 2.54 2.59 2.47 2.43 Debt to equity ratio 17.6% 17.2% 8.2% 10.9% 14.3% ====================================================================== /1./ The Company's fiscal year end is the Saturday closest to the end of January. Fiscal 2000 was 53 weeks and ended on February 3, 2001. All other fiscal years presented consisted of 52 weeks. /2./ Calculated using net sales for stores open during the entire period divided by the selling square feet of such stores. /3./ A store is included in comparable store sales the first day of the fiscal month beginning with the fourteenth full fiscal month of sales. To ensure a meaningful comparison, comparable store sales are always measured on a 52-week basis. 22 CPWM Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations An asterisk "*" denotes a forward-looking statement reflecting current expectations that involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those discussed in such forward-looking statements and shareholders of Cost Plus, Inc. (the "Company" or "Cost Plus") should carefully review the cautionary statements set forth in this Annual Report, including "Quarterly Results and Seasonality" beginning on page 27. The Company may from time to time make additional written and oral forward-looking statements, including statements contained in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement that may be made from time to time by or on behalf of the Company. Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates Cost Plus, Inc. and its subsidiaries' discussion and analysis of its financial condition and results of operations are based upon the Company's consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The preparation of these financial statements requires the Company to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. Estimates and assumptions include, but are not limited to, inventory values, fixed asset lives, intangible asset values, deferred income taxes, self-insurance reserves and the impact of contingencies and litigation. The Company bases its estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from those estimates under different assumptions or conditions. The Company has also chosen certain accounting policies when options are available, including: . the retail inventory method of accounting for inventories. . the intrinsic value method to account for common stock incentive awards. These accounting policies are applied consistently for all years presented. Operating results would be affected if other alternatives were used. Information about the impact on operating results by using Accounting Principles Board (APB) Opinion No. 25 "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees" is included in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements. Although not all inclusive, the Company believes that the following represent the more critical estimates and assumptions used in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements. Revenue Recognition The Company recognizes revenue from the sale of merchandise, net of discounts and an allowance for estimated returns, at the time the merchandise is sold. The allowance for sales returns is estimated based on historical experience. Historically, sales returns have not been material, and the Company believes they will not be material in the future.* Net Sales Net sales consist of sales from comparable stores and non-comparable stores. A store is not included in comparable store sales until the first day of the fiscal month beginning with the fourteenth full fiscal month of sales. Non-comparable store sales include sales in the current fiscal year from stores opened during the previous fiscal year and new stores opened during the current fiscal year before they are considered comparable stores. Inventory Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market with cost determined under the retail inventory method ("RIM"), in which the valuation of inventories at cost and gross margins are calculated by applying a calculated cost-to-retail ratio to the retail value of inventories. RIM is an averaging method that is widely used in the retail industry due to its practicality. Also, the Company's use of the RIM results in valuing inventories at lower of cost or market as markdowns are currently taken as a reduction of the retail value of inventories. Inherent in the RIM calculation are certain 23 CPWM significant management judgments and estimates including, among others, merchandise markon, markdowns and shrinkage, which impact the ending inventory valuation at cost as well as gross margin. To reduce the potential of such distortions in the valuation of inventory, the Company's RIM utilizes several departments in which fairly homogeneous classes of merchandise inventories having similar gross margins are grouped. In addition, failure to take timely markdowns could result in an overstatement of cost under the lower of cost or market principle. When necessary, the Company records a markdown allowance that reduces inventory value to the lower of cost or market. Management believes that the Company's RIM provides an inventory valuation that reasonably approximates cost and results in carrying inventory at the lower of cost or market. Insurance / Benefits The Company records estimates for certain health and welfare, workers' compensation and casualty insurance costs that are self-insurance programs with per occurrence and aggregate limits on losses. Should a greater amount of claims occur compared to what was estimated or costs of medical care increase beyond what was anticipated, reserves recorded may not be sufficient and additional costs to the consolidated financial statements could be required. Other Accounting Estimates Estimates inherent in the preparation of the Company's financial statements include those associated with the evaluation of the recoverability of deferred tax assets and goodwill as well as those used in the determination of liabilities related to litigation, claims and assessments. Various assumptions and other factors underlie the determination of these significant estimates. The process of determining significant estimates is fact specific and takes into account factors such as historic experience and current and expected economic conditions. The Company periodically reevaluates these significant factors and makes adjustments where facts and circumstances dictate. To date, actual results have not significantly deviated from those determined using the estimates described above. The Company has not recorded a valuation allowance to reduce its deferred tax assets. The Company has considered future taxable income and ongoing prudent and feasible tax planning strategies in assessing the need for a valuation allowance. In the event the Company were to determine that it would not be able to realize all or part of its net deferred tax assets in the future, an adjustment to deferred tax assets would be charged to income in the period such a determination was made. Likewise, should the Company determine it would be able to realize deferred tax assets in the future in excess of the net recorded amount, an adjustment to the deferred tax asset would increase income in the period such a determination was made. The Company had net goodwill in the amount of $4.2 million at February 1, 2003. In connection with the adoption of Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (SFAS) No. 142, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets," the Company performed an impairment test which resulted in no impairment being identified. The Company is involved in litigation, claims and assessments incidental to its business, the disposition of which is not expected to have a material effect on the Company's financial position or results of operations.* It is possible, however, that future results of operations for any particular quarterly or annual period could be materially affected by changes in the Company's assumptions related to these matters. The Company accrues its best estimate of the probable cost for the resolution of claims. When appropriate, such estimates are developed in consultation with outside counsel handling the matters and are based upon a combination of litigation and settlement strategies. To the extent additional information arises or the Company's strategies change, it is possible that the Company's best estimate of its probable liability may change. Forward-Looking Statements and Factors Affecting Future Performance This report includes a number of forward-looking statements, which reflect the Company's current beliefs and estimates with respect to future events and the Company's future financial performance, operations and competitive position. 24 CPWM In addition to statements marked with an asterisk "*", the words "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "believe," "looking ahead," "forecast," "may," "will," "should," "project," "continue," "aims," "intends," "likely," "plan" and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. The Company's continued success depends, in part, upon its ability to increase sales at existing locations, to open new stores and to operate stores on a profitable basis. There can be no assurance that the Company's existing strategies and store expansion program will result in a continuation of revenue and profit growth. Future economic and industry trends that could potentially impact revenue and profitability are difficult to predict. The forward-looking statements that are contained in this report are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause the Company's actual results to differ materially from historical results or current expectations. These factors include, without limitation, a general deterioration in economic trends, ongoing competitive pressures in the retail industry, obtaining acceptable store locations, timely introduction and customer acceptance of the Company's merchandise offering, the Company's ability to efficiently source and distribute products, the Company's ability to realize the expected operational and cost efficiencies from its distribution centers, the Company's ability to successfully extend its geographic reach into new markets, unseasonable weather trends, significant increases in the cost of fuel or utility services, changes in the level of consumer spending on, or preferences for, home-related merchandise, the Company's ability to attract and retain the retail talent necessary to execute its strategies, international conflicts and political strife and the effects on the flow or price of merchandise from overseas, further terrorist attacks and our nation's response thereto and the Company's ability to implement and integrate various new systems and technologies. In addition, the Company's corporate headquarters, one of its distribution centers and a significant number of its stores are located in California; therefore, a downturn in the California economy or a major natural disaster could significantly affect the Company's operating results and financial condition. In addition to the above factors, the retail industry is highly seasonal. The net sales of the Company for the fourth (Holiday) fiscal quarter are historically higher than each of the first three fiscal quarters. The Company has realized a significant portion of its profits in each fiscal year during the fourth fiscal quarter. If intensified price competition, lower than anticipated consumer demand or other factors were to occur during the fourth fiscal quarter, the Company's fiscal year results could be adversely affected. Results of Operations Fiscal 2002 Compared to Fiscal 2001 Net Sales Net sales increased $123.8 million, or 21.8%, to $692.3 million in fiscal 2002, from $568.5 million in fiscal 2001. The increase in net sales was attributable to an increase in comparable and non-comparable store sales. Comparable store sales rose 5.6%, or $30.1 million for fiscal 2002, compared to 0.3%, or $1.3 million, in fiscal 2001. Comparable store sales increased as a result of a 2.7% increase in customer traffic and a 2.9% increase in average transaction size per customer. The increase in average transaction size per customer resulted primarily from a sales mix shift to home furnishings, which carry a higher average retail price. Non-comparable store sales, which include all stores open less than fourteen full fiscal months, increased $93.7 million. As of February 1, 2003, the Company operated 175 stores compared to 150 stores as of February 2, 2002. Cost of Sales and Occupancy Cost of sales and occupancy, which consists of costs to acquire merchandise inventory, costs of freight and distribution, as well as certain facility costs, increased $77.4 million, or 20.8%, in fiscal 2002 compared to fiscal 2001. Cost of sales increased $67.4 million due to the increased sales volume, as well as an increase in distribution costs from the ramp-up of the Company's new Virginia distribution center. Occupancy costs increased $10.0 million due to the addition of 25 net new stores in fiscal 2002, an increase in rental rates for renewal lease agreements and increases in common area maintenance costs passed through by landlords under these agreements. Total cost of sales 25 CPWM and occupancy decreased 0.5 percentage points to 65.1% of sales in fiscal 2002 from 65.6% of sales in fiscal 2001. The decline is mainly due to a higher sales mix of home furnishings in fiscal 2002 which have a lower product cost as a percentage of sales. Gross Profit As a percentage of net sales, gross profit was 34.9% in fiscal 2002 and 34.4% in fiscal 2001. The increase is substantially explained by a sales mix shift to higher margin home furnishings. Home furnishings made up 63% of total sales in fiscal 2002, compared to 62% in fiscal 2001. Selling, General and Administrative ("SG&A") Expenses As a percentage of net sales, SG&A expenses increased to 27.8% in the current year from 27.6% last year. The increase in the SG&A expense rate resulted primarily from costs associated with the settlement of claims relating to the California wage and hour lawsuit and professional fees related to an employment and capital investment tax study. Together these costs impacted the SG&A rate by 0.5 percentage points. Partially offsetting this effect was the additional leverage on operating expenses from increased sales. Store Preopening Expenses Store preopening expenses, which include grand opening advertising and preopening merchandise setup expenses, were $5.4 million in fiscal 2002 and $4.6 million in fiscal 2001. Expenses vary depending on the particular store site and whether it is located in a new or existing market. The Company opened 26 stores in fiscal 2002 compared to 23 stores in fiscal 2001. Net Interest Expense Net interest expense, which includes interest on capital leases and interest expense on the Company's revolving line of credit, net of interest income earned on Company investments, was $3.5 million in fiscal 2002 and $1.0 million in fiscal 2001. This increase in net interest expense was due to an increase in capital lease interest incurred in connection with leases signed for the Virginia distribution center, higher average borrowings and lower interest earned on investments due to a significant drop in the prime rate. Income Taxes The Company's effective tax rate was 30.4% in fiscal 2002 and 39.0% in fiscal 2001. The decrease in the tax rate was substantially due to tax credits relating to an employment and capital investment tax study recorded in fiscal 2002. Of the credits recognized in fiscal 2002, $2.4 million related to prior years. Excluding the effect of the prior year credits and associated fees, the Company's effective tax rate was 35.8% for fiscal 2002. For fiscal 2003, the Company expects that the effective tax rate will be 37.0% due to the benefit of employment and capital investment tax credits.* Fiscal 2001 Compared to Fiscal 2000 Net Sales Net sales increased $74.8 million, or 15.2%, to $568.5 million in fiscal 2001, a 52-week fiscal year, from $493.7 million in fiscal 2000, a 53-week fiscal year. The increase in net sales was attributable to a $1.3 million increase in comparable store sales and a $73.5 million increase in non-comparable store sales adjusted to include the 53rd week in fiscal 2000. Comparable store sales rose 0.3% for fiscal 2001, compared to a 4.6% increase in fiscal 2000. Comparable store sales were impacted by lower sales in the third fiscal quarter due primarily to the weak economy, temporarily exacerbated by the September 11th tragedy and an impeded flow of goods to stores associated with the installation of a new warehouse management system. Comparable store sales decreased 7.4% in the third fiscal quarter, yet recovered to a 2.7% increase for the fourth fiscal quarter of 2001. As of February 2, 2002, the Company operated 150 stores compared to 127 stores as of February 3, 2001. Cost of Sales and Occupancy Cost of sales and occupancy, which consists of costs to acquire merchandise inventory, costs of freight and distribution, as well as certain facility costs, increased $56.4 million, or 17.8%, in fiscal 2001 compared to fiscal 2000. Cost of sales increased $48.2 million due to the increased sales volume, and occupancy costs increased $8.2 million due to the addition of 23 new stores in fiscal 2001. 26 CPWM Gross Profit As a percentage of net sales, gross profit was 34.4% in fiscal 2001 and 35.9% in fiscal 2000. The reduction is substantially explained by a sales mix shift to lower margin consumable goods and higher markdowns to stimulate foot traffic. Consumable goods made up 38% of total sales in fiscal 2001, compared to 37% in fiscal 2000. Reduced leverage on occupancy costs from a higher percentage of new stores in the base and increased transportation costs also negatively impacted margin. Newer stores generally have higher occupancy costs as a percentage of sales until they reach maturity. Selling, General and Administrative ("SG&A") Expenses As a percentage of net sales, SG&A expenses increased slightly to 27.6% in fiscal 2001 from 27.5% in the prior year. The increase in the SG&A expense rate resulted almost entirely from reduced sales leverage on lower comparable store sales growth in fiscal 2001 compared to fiscal 2000. Store Preopening Expenses Store preopening expenses, which include grand opening advertising and preopening merchandise setup expenses, were $4.6 million in fiscal 2001 and $5.0 million in fiscal 2000. Expenses vary depending on the particular store site and whether it is located in a new or existing market. The Company opened 23 stores in fiscal 2001 compared to 24 stores in fiscal 2000. Net Interest Expense Net interest expense, which includes interest on capital leases and interest expense on the Company's revolving line of credit, net of interest income earned on Company investments, was $1.0 million in fiscal 2001 and $0.7 million in fiscal 2000. The increase in net interest expense was due to an increase in average borrowings and lower interest earned on investments due to a significant drop in the prime rate. Income Taxes The Company's effective tax rate was 39.0% in both fiscal 2001 and fiscal 2000. Inflation The Company does not believe that inflation has had a material effect on its financial condition and results of operations during the past three fiscal years. However, there can be no assurance that the Company's business will not be affected by inflation in the future. Quarterly Results and Seasonality The following table sets forth the Company's unaudited quarterly operating results for the eight most recent quarterly periods. Fiscal Quarters Ended ---------------------------------------------------------------------- (In thousands, except per share data and number May 4, August 3, November 2, February 1, of stores) 2002 2002 2002 2003 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Net sales $ 134,349 $ 138,339 $ 149,886 $ 269,727 Gross profit 45,700 47,095 50,210 98,911 Net income (loss) 1,677 2,155 (712) 25,266 Net income (loss) per share Basic $ 0.08 $ 0.10 $ (0.03) $ 1.16 Diluted $ 0.08 $ 0.10 $ (0.03) $ 1.14 Number of stores open at end of period 156 163 169 175 27 CPWM Fiscal Quarters Ended -------------------------------------------------------- (In thousands, except per share data and number May 5, August 4, November 3, February 2, of stores) 2001 2001 2001 2002 -------------------------------------------------------- Net sales $ 112,915 $ 112,101 $ 113,544 $ 229,912 Gross profit 37,261 37,342 36,294 84,627 Net income (loss) 1,233 1,509 (2,321) 19,781 Net income (loss) per share Basic $ 0.06 $ 0.07 $ (0.11) $ 0.93 Diluted $ 0.06 $ 0.07 $ (0.11) $ 0.91 Number of stores open at end of period 132 137 145 150 The Company's business is highly seasonal, reflecting the general pattern associated with the retail industry of peak sales and earnings during the fourth quarter (Holiday) season. Due to the importance of the Holiday selling season, the fourth quarter of each fiscal year has historically contributed and the Company expects it will continue to contribute, a disproportionate percentage of the Company's net sales and most of its net income for the entire fiscal year.* Any factors negatively affecting the Company during the Holiday selling season in any year, including unfavorable economic conditions, could have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial condition and results of operations. The Company generally experiences lower sales and earnings during the first three quarters and, as is typical in the retail industry, may incur losses in these quarters. The results of operations for these interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results for a full fiscal year. In addition, the Company makes decisions regarding merchandise well in advance of the season in which it will be sold. Significant deviations from projected demand for products could have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial condition and results of operations, either by lost gross sales due to insufficient inventory or lost gross margin due to the need to mark down excess inventory.* The Company's quarterly results of operations may also fluctuate based upon such factors as delays in the flow of merchandise, the ability to realize the expected operational and cost efficiencies from its distribution centers, the number and timing of store openings and related store preopening expenses, the amount of net sales contributed by new and existing stores, the mix of products sold, the timing and level of markdowns, store closings or relocations, competitive factors, changes in fuel and other shipping costs, general economic conditions, geopolitical conditions, labor market fluctuations, changes in accounting rules and regulations and unseasonable weather conditions. Liquidity and Capital Resources The Company's primary uses for cash are to fund operating expenses, inventory requirements and new store expansion. Historically, the Company has financed its operations primarily from internally generated funds and seasonal borrowings under the Company's revolving credit facility. The Company believes that the combination of its cash and cash equivalents, internally generated funds and available borrowings under a revolving line of credit will be sufficient to finance its working capital and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months.* Net cash provided by operating activities totaled $31.2 million for fiscal 2002, an increase of $3.2 million from fiscal 2001. The increase in net cash provided by operating activities was primarily due to the increase in net income to $28.4 million and an increase in current liabilities, partially offset by an increase in inventories. For fiscal 2001, net cash provided by operating activities totaled $28.0 million, an increase of $5.9 million from fiscal 2000. The increase in net cash provided by operating activities in fiscal 2001, was primarily due to an increase in current liabilities, partially offset by a slight decrease in net income and increases in inventories and deposits on equipment for the Company's second distribution center which was opened in fiscal 2002. 28 CPWM Net cash used in investing activities, including capital expenditures for new stores, totaled $22.8 million in fiscal 2002 compared to $27.4 million in fiscal 2001, a decrease of $4.6 million. This decrease resulted from additional spending for distribution center projects in fiscal 2001 partially offset by opening three more stores in fiscal 2002 compared to fiscal 2001. The Company estimates that fiscal 2003 capital expenditures will approximate $26.5 million, including approximately $13.0 million for new stores, $8.5 million for information systems and distribution center projects, and $5.0 million allocated to investments in existing stores and facilities.* For fiscal 2001, net cash used in investing activities, primarily capital expenditures for new stores, totaled $27.4 million compared to $26.5 million in fiscal 2000, an increase of $0.9 million. Additional spending for distribution center projects in fiscal 2001 was only partially offset by the Company opening one less store in fiscal 2001 compared to fiscal 2000. Net cash used in financing activities was $4.2 million in fiscal 2002 which was due primarily to the repurchase of 298,600 shares of the Company's common stock for $7.8 million, partially offset by proceeds of $4.8 million from the issuance of common stock in connection with the Company's stock option and stock purchase plans. Under a plan approved by the Company's Board of Directors in fiscal 2002, the Company was authorized to purchase up to 500,000 shares of its common stock under a common stock repurchase plan. As of the end of February 2003, the Company had purchased the maximum number of shares permitted under the initial authorization. At its February 2003 meeting, the Board of Directors approved an additional repurchase up to 500,000 shares under the program. The Company will repurchase common stock when the price of its common stock creates an opportunity for an effective use of capital beyond what is needed to fund store expansion. The program does not require the Company to repurchase any common stock and can be discontinued at any time. For fiscal 2001, net cash provided by financing activities was $6.0 million, an increase of $1.2 million from fiscal 2000. The increase in cash provided by financing activities was due primarily to an increase of $0.9 million from the proceeds from the issuance of common stock in connection with the Company's stock option and stock purchase plans. The table below presents significant contractual obligations of the Company at February 1, 2003. Less than After Total Amount Contractual Obligations (in millions) 1 year 1-3 years 4-5 Years 5 Years Committed - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Operating leases $ 50.4 $ 142.3 $ 83.6 $ 128.8 $ 405.1 Capital leases (principal and interest) 5.2 15.4 10.0 48.9 79.5 -------------------------------------------------------------- Total contractual obligations $ 55.6 $ 157.7 $ 93.6 $ 177.7 $ 484.6 ============================================================== The Company has no financial arrangements involving special purpose entities or lease agreements commonly described as synthetic leases. The Company has an unsecured revolving line of credit agreement with a group of banks. The agreement allows for cash borrowings and letters of credit up to $30.0 million from January through June of each year, increasing to $75.0 million from July through December of each year to coincide with Holiday borrowing needs. Interest is paid quarterly in arrears on base rate loans and at each interest period applicable to IBOR loans (30, 60 and 90 days) based on the Company's election of the bank's reference rate or IBOR plus 0.9% from May 29, 2002 to June 1, 2003, increasing to IBOR plus 1.125% from June 2, 2003 to June 1, 2004 and IBOR plus 1.25% from June 2, 2004 to June 1, 2005. The agreement requires a 30-day "clean-up period" each year where outstanding credit advances, as defined in the agreement can (a) not exceed $20 million for not less than 30 consecutive days during the period from January 1, 2003 through March 31, 2003 and (b) must be zero for not less than 30 consecutive days during the period from January 1, 2004 through March 31, 2004 and from January 1, 2005 through March 31, 2005. The Company is subject 29 CPWM to and in compliance with, certain financial covenants customary to such agreements. At the end of the last three fiscal years, the Company had no outstanding borrowings under its line of credit agreement. The Company had $10.7 million, $8.2 million and $4.1 million in outstanding letters of credit at the end of fiscal 2002, 2001 and 2000, respectively. The line of credit represents the Company's only commercial credit facility. The Company believes the line of credit is sufficient to meet its borrowing needs for the next year.* New Accounting Pronouncements In June 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued SFAS No. 142, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets," which became effective for the Company for fiscal 2002. SFAS No. 142 specifies that goodwill and certain intangible assets will no longer be amortized but instead will be subject to periodic impairment testing. The adoption of this standard reduced amortization associated with goodwill and other intangible assets by approximately $312,000 in fiscal 2002. See Note 1 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. In August 2001, the FASB issued SFAS No. 144, "Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets." SFAS No. 144 establishes accounting and reporting standards for the impairment of long-lived assets and for long-lived assets to be disposed of. The Company adopted SFAS No. 144 in the first quarter of fiscal 2002. The initial adoption of SFAS No. 144 did not impact the Company. In June 2002, the FASB issued SFAS No. 146, "Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities," which addresses accounting for restructuring and similar costs. SFAS No. 146 supersedes previous accounting guidance included in Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) Issue No. 94-3. The Company has adopted the provisions of SFAS No. 146 for restructuring activities, if any, initiated after December 31, 2002. SFAS No. 146 requires that the liability for costs associated with an exit or disposal activity be recognized when the liability is incurred and that the liability be measured and recorded at fair value. Under Issue No. 94-3, a liability for an exit cost was estimated and recognized at the date of the Company's commitment to an exit plan. Accordingly, SFAS No. 146 may affect the timing of recognizing future restructuring costs as well as the amounts recognized.* In December 2002, the FASB issued SFAS No. 148, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation - Transition and Disclosure." SFAS No. 148 amends SFAS No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation", to provide alternative methods of transition for a voluntary change to the fair value based method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation. The Company will not adopt the voluntary transition afforded under SFAS No. 148 and will continue to account for stock-based compensation using the intrinsic value method in accordance with the provisions of APB Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees", as allowed by SFAS No. 123. In addition, SFAS No. 148 amends the disclosure requirements of SFAS No. 123 to require prominent disclosures in both annual and interim financial statements about the method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation and the effect of the method used on reported results. The annual disclosure provisions of SFAS No. 148 are effective for the Company's fiscal year ended February 1, 2003. The interim disclosure provisions are effective for the first quarter of the fiscal year ending January 31, 2004. In November 2002, the FASB issued Interpretation (FIN) No. 45, "Guarantor's Accounting and Disclosure Requirements for Guarantees, Including Indirect Guarantees of Indebtedness of Others." FIN No. 45 elaborates on the disclosures to be made by a guarantor in its interim and annual financial statements about obligations under certain guarantees that it has issued. It also requires that a guarantor recognize, at the inception of a guarantee, a liability for the fair value of the obligation undertaken in issuing the guarantee. The disclosure requirements of FIN No. 45 are effective for interim and annual periods ending after December 15, 2002, and the initial recognition and measurement requirements 30 CPWM are effective prospectively for guarantees issued or modified after December 31, 2002. The initial adoption of FIN No. 45 did not have a material impact on the Company's financial position or results of operations. In November 2002, the EITF reached a consensus regarding EITF Issue No. 02-16, "Accounting by a Customer (including a Reseller) for Certain Consideration Received from a Vendor." Issue No. 02-16 addresses the timing of recognition and classification of consideration received from vendors, including rebates and allowances. Issue No. 02-16 is effective for certain of the Company's vendor rebates and allowances commencing in November 2002 and others in January 2003. The adoption of Issue No. 02-16 did not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure About Market Risk The Company is exposed to financial market risks, which include changes in U.S. interest rates and foreign exchange rates. The Company does not engage in financial transactions for trading or speculative purposes. Interest Rate Risk The interest payable on the Company's bank line of credit is based on variable interest rates and is therefore affected by changes in market interest rates. If interest rates on existing variable rate debt were to rise 40 basis points (a 10% change from the Company's borrowing rate as of February 1, 2003), the Company's results of operations and cash flows would not be materially affected. In addition, the Company has fixed and variable income investments consisting of cash equivalents and short-term investments which are also affected by changes in market interest rates. Foreign Currency Risks The Company enters into a significant amount of purchase obligations outside of the United States of America which are settled in U.S. Dollars and, therefore, the Company has only minimal exposure to foreign currency exchange risks. The Company does not hedge against foreign currency risks and believes that foreign currency exchange risk is immaterial.* Stock Activity The Company's common stock is currently traded on the over-the-counter market and is quoted on the Nasdaq National Market under the symbol "CPWM." The following table sets forth the high and low closing sales prices, for the periods indicated, as reported by the Nasdaq National Market. Price Range ------------------------- High Low ------------------------- Fiscal Year Ended February 1, 2003 First Quarter $ 32.03 $ 24.31 Second Quarter 34.58 20.10 Third Quarter 30.07 19.89 Fourth Quarter 34.08 23.60 Fiscal Year Ended February 2, 2002 First Quarter $ 27.81 $ 21.13 Second Quarter 30.18 25.25 Third Quarter 27.00 15.29 Fourth Quarter 27.94 20.20 As of April 3, 2003, the Company estimated it had approximately 6,000 shareholders. The Company's present policy is to not pay cash dividends. 31 CPWM Consolidated Balance Sheets February 1, February 2, (In thousands, except share amounts) 2003 2002 --------------------------- Assets Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 49,707 $ 45,420 Merchandise inventories, net 172,388 131,344 Other current assets 19,980 16,789 --------------------------- Total current assets 242,075 193,553 Property and equipment, net 120,900 110,922 Goodwill, net 4,178 4,178 Other assets, net 7,506 9,287 --------------------------- Total assets $ 374,659 $ 317,940 =========================== Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity Current liabilities: Accounts payable $ 58,119 $ 43,990 Income taxes payable 9,478 10,082 Accrued compensation 11,645 8,305 Other current liabilities 20,064 13,795 --------------------------- Total current liabilities 99,306 76,172 Capital lease obligations 37,972 33,216 Other long-term obligations 11,601 9,843 Commitments and contingencies (See Note 9) Shareholders' equity: Preferred stock, $.01 par value: 5,000,000 shares authorized; none issued and outstanding - - Common stock, $.01 par value: 67,500,000 shares authorized; issued and outstanding 21,555,643 and 21,549,643 shares 215 215 Additional paid-in capital 136,542 131,730 Retained earnings 89,023 66,764 --------------------------- Total shareholders' equity 225,780 198,709 --------------------------- Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $ 374,659 $ 317,940 =========================== See notes to consolidated financial statements. 32 CPWM Consolidated Statements of Operations Fiscal Year Ended -------------------------------------------- February 1, February 2, February 3, (In thousands, except per share amounts) 2003 2002 2001 -------------------------------------------- Net sales $ 692,301 $ 568,472 $ 493,661 Cost of sales and occupancy 450,385 372,948 316,500 -------------------------------------------- Gross profit 241,916 195,524 177,161 Selling, general and administrative expenses 192,284 156,832 135,923 Store preopening expenses 5,378 4,612 5,044 -------------------------------------------- Income from operations 44,254 34,080 36,194 Interest income 324 882 1,293 Interest expense (3,776) (1,844) (1,959) -------------------------------------------- Income before income taxes 40,802 33,118 35,528 Income taxes 12,416 12,916 13,856 -------------------------------------------- Net income $ 28,386 $ 20,202 $ 21,672 ============================================ Net income per share Basic $ 1.31 $ 0.95 $ 1.04 Diluted $ 1.28 $ 0.93 $ 1.00 ============================================ Weighted average shares outstanding Basic 21,696 21,355 20,813 Diluted 22,158 21,756 21,568 ============================================ See notes to consolidated financial statements. 33 CPWM Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity Common Stock Additional Total -------------------------- Paid-in Retained Shareholders' (In thousands, except shares) Shares Amount Capital Earnings Equity --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Balance at January 29, 2000 20,521,884 $ 205 $ 113,240 $ 24,890 $ 138,335 Common stock issued under Employee Stock Purchase Plan 15,768 - 380 380 Exercise of common stock options 467,685 5 5,138 5,143 Tax effect of disqualifying common stock dispositions 3,591 3,591 Net income 21,672 21,672 --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Balance at February 3, 2001 21,005,337 210 122,349 46,562 169,121 Common stock issued under Employee Stock Purchase Plan 16,417 - 355 355 Exercise of common stock options 527,889 5 6,029 6,034 Tax effect of disqualifying common stock dispositions 2,997 2,997 Net income 20,202 20,202 --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Balance at February 2, 2002 21,549,643 215 131,730 66,764 198,709 Common stock issued under Employee Stock Purchase Plan 14,385 - 355 355 Exercise of common stock options 290,215 3 4,463 4,466 Repurchase of common stock (298,600) (3) (1,695) (6,127) (7,825) Tax effect of disqualifying common stock dispositions 1,689 1,689 Net income 28,386 28,386 --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Balance at February 1, 2003 21,555,643 $ 215 $ 136,542 $ 89,023 $ 225,780 =========================================================================== See notes to consolidated financial statements. 34 CPWM Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Fiscal Year Ended -------------------------------------------- February 1, February 2, February 3, (In thousands) 2003 2002 2001 -------------------------------------------- Cash Flows From Operating Activities: Net income $ 28,386 $ 20,202 $ 21,672 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Depreciation and amortization 19,764 16,320 13,887 Loss on disposal of property and equipment 131 203 407 Deferred income taxes 1,341 234 (2,103) Changes in assets and liabilities: Merchandise inventories (41,044) (21,515) (18,427) Other assets (3,154) (5,667) (3,172) Accounts payable 14,129 12,398 6,520 Other liabilities 11,670 5,832 3,317 -------------------------------------------- Net cash provided by operating activities 31,223 28,007 22,101 -------------------------------------------- Cash Flows From Investing Activities: Purchases of property and equipment (22,784) (27,411) (26,529) -------------------------------------------- Net cash used in investing activities (22,784) (27,411) (26,529) -------------------------------------------- Cash Flows From Financing Activities: Principal payments on capital lease obligations (1,148) (380) (691) Cash used for repurchase of common stock (7,825) - - Proceeds from the issuance of common stock 4,821 6,389 5,523 -------------------------------------------- Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities (4,152) 6,009 4,832 -------------------------------------------- Net increase in cash and cash equivalents 4,287 6,605 404 Cash and Cash Equivalents: Beginning of period 45,420 38,815 38,411 -------------------------------------------- End of period $ 49,707 $ 45,420 $ 38,815 ============================================ Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information: Cash paid for interest $ 3,283 $ 912 $ 669 ============================================ Cash paid for taxes $ 9,988 $ 9,537 $ 11,672 ============================================ Non-cash Financing: Capital lease obligation related to distribution center $ 6,686 $ 20,632 $ - ============================================ See notes to consolidated financial statements. 35 CPWM Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements Note 1. Summary of Business and Significant Accounting Policies Business Cost Plus, Inc. and subsidiaries (the "Company") is a specialty retailer of casual home living and entertaining products. At February 1, 2003, the Company operated 175 stores in 23 states under the names "World Market," "Cost Plus World Market," "Cost Plus" and "Cost Plus Imports." The Company's product offerings are designed to provide solutions to customers' casual home furnishing and home entertaining needs. The offerings include home decorating items such as furniture and rugs, as well as a variety of tabletop and kitchen products. Cost Plus World Market stores also offer a number of gift and decorative accessories including collectibles, cards, wrapping paper and other seasonal items. In addition, Cost Plus World Market offers its customers a wide selection of gourmet foods and beverages, including wine, micro-brewed and imported beer, coffee and tea. The Company accounts for its operations as one operating segment. Fiscal Year The Company's fiscal year end is the Saturday closest to the end of January. The current and prior fiscal years ended February 1, 2003 (fiscal 2002) and February 2, 2002 (fiscal 2001) contained 52 weeks. Consistent with the National Retail Federation fiscal calendar, the fiscal year ended February 3, 2001 (fiscal 2000) contained 53 weeks. Principles of Consolidation The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Cost Plus, Inc. and its subsidiaries. Intercompany balances and transactions are eliminated in consolidation. Accounting Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, including disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities, as of the date of the financial statements, as well as the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. The Company's significant accounting judgments and estimates affect the valuation of inventories, depreciable lives of long-lived assets, impairments of long-lived assets, accrued liabilities, deferred taxes, self insurance reserves and reserves for sales returns. Estimated Fair Value of Financial Instruments The carrying value of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and accounts payable approximates their estimated fair value. Cash Equivalents The Company considers all highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less as cash equivalents. Inventories Inventories are stated at lower of cost or market under the retail inventory method ("RIM"), in which the valuation of inventories at cost and gross margins are calculated by applying a calculated cost-to-retail ratio to the retail value of inventories. Cost includes certain buying and distribution costs related to the procurement, processing and transportation of merchandise. Management believes that the Company's RIM provides an inventory valuation which reasonably approximates cost and results in carrying inventory at the lower of cost or market. Property and Equipment Furniture, fixtures and equipment are stated at cost and are depreciated using the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives: Store fixtures and equipment 3-10 years Leasehold improvements Lesser of life of the asset or life of lease Computer equipment and software 3-5 years 36 CPWM Capital Leases Noncancelable leases which meet the criteria of capital leases are capitalized as assets in property and equipment and amortized on a straight-line basis over their related lease terms. Other Assets Other assets include lease rights and interests, deferred taxes and other intangibles. Lease rights and interests are amortized on a straight-line basis over their related lease terms. Goodwill In June 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (SFAS) No. 142, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets." SFAS No. 142 requires that goodwill be disclosed separately from other intangible assets in the balance sheet, and no longer be amortized but tested at least annually for impairment. The Company adopted SFAS No. 142 on February 3, 2002 and ceased amortizing $4.2 million of goodwill as of that date. As required by this pronouncement, during the year, the Company completed the transitional and annual impairment tests, and based on the tests performed, there was no impairment of goodwill in fiscal 2002. There can be no assurance that future goodwill impairment tests will not result in a charge to earnings. Impairment of Long-Lived and Intangible Assets The Company's management believes that the carrying value of long-lived assets is appropriate and no adjustments to the carrying value of such assets is necessary. Self-Insurance The Company is self insured for workers' compensation, general liability costs and certain health insurance plans with per occurrence and aggregate limits on losses. The self-insurance liability recorded in the financial statements is based on claims filed and an estimate of claims incurred but not yet reported. Deferred Rent Certain of the Company's operating leases contain predetermined fixed escalations of minimum rentals during the initial term. For these leases, the Company recognizes the related rental expense on a straight-line basis over the life of the lease and records the difference between amounts charged to operations and amounts paid as deferred rent. As part of its lease agreements, the Company may receive certain lease incentives, primarily construction allowances. These allowances are also deferred and are amortized as a reduction of rent expense on a straight-line basis over the life of the lease. The cumulative net excess of recorded rent expense over lease payments made in the amount of $10.5 million and $8.6 million is reflected in other liabilities in the balance sheets as of February 1, 2003 and February 2, 2002, respectively. Stock-Based Compensation The Company accounts for stock-based awards to employees using the intrinsic value method prescribed by Accounting Principles Board (APB) Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees." Consequently, no compensation expense has been recognized in the financial statements for employee stock arrangements. The disclosure requirements of SFAS No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation," are set forth below. SFAS No. 123 establishes a fair value method of accounting for stock options and other equity instruments. SFAS No. 123 requires the disclosure of pro forma net income and earnings per share as if the Company had adopted the fair 37 CPWM value method. For determining pro forma earnings per share, the fair value of the stock options and employees' purchase rights were estimated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following assumptions: Fiscal Year Ended ---------------------------------------------------- February 1, February 2, February 3, Stock Options 2003 2002 2001 - ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Expected life after vesting (in years) 1.8 1.8 1.8 Expected volatility 64.0% 62.5% 65.0% Risk free interest rates 4.0% 4.4% 6.4% Weighted average fair value per share granted $ 12.99 $ 12.10 $ 11.22 Expected dividends - - - The Company's calculations are based on a multiple option approach and forfeitures are recognized as they occur. Had compensation cost for these stock option and stock purchase plans been determined based on the fair value at the grant dates for awards under those plans consistent with the methods of SFAS No. 123, the Company's net income and earnings per share would have been reduced to the pro forma amounts indicated below: Fiscal Year Ended ------------------------------------------ February 1, February 2, February 3, (In thousands, except per share data) 2003 2002 2001 ------------------------------------------ Net income: As reported $ 28,386 $ 20,202 $ 21,672 Pro forma 24,019 16,382 17,981 Basic net income per share: As reported $ 1.31 $ 0.95 $ 1.04 Pro forma 1.11 0.77 0.86 Diluted net income per share: As reported $ 1.28 $ 0.93 $ 1.00 Pro forma 1.08 0.75 0.83 Revenue Recognition The Company recognizes revenue from the sale of merchandise, net of discounts and an allowance for estimated returns, at the time the merchandise is sold. The allowance for sales returns is estimated based on historical experience, and to date has not been material. Advertising Expense Advertising costs, which include newspaper, television, radio and other media advertising, are expensed as incurred. For fiscal 2002, 2001 and 2000, advertising costs were $38.7 million, $30.6 million and $27.2 million, respectively. Store Preopening Expenses Store preopening expenses include grand opening advertising, labor, travel and hiring expenses and are expensed as incurred. Concentration of Credit Risk Financial instruments, which potentially subject the Company to concentration of credit risk, consist principally of cash and cash equivalents. The Company places its cash with high quality financial institutions. At times, such balances may be in excess of FDIC insurance limits. 38 CPWM Income Taxes Income taxes are accounted for using an asset and liability approach that requires recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in the Company's consolidated financial statements or tax returns. Comprehensive Income The Company's comprehensive income and net income are the same for all periods presented. Net Income per Share SFAS No. 128 "Earnings Per Share," requires earnings per share (EPS) to be computed and reported as both basic EPS and diluted EPS. Basic EPS is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted EPS is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares and dilutive common stock equivalents outstanding during the period. Dilutive EPS reflects the potential dilution that could occur if options to issue common stock were exercised into common stock. The following is a reconciliation of the weighted average number of shares used in the Company's basic and diluted per share computations. Fiscal Year Ended ------------------------------------------ February 1, February 2, February 3, (In thousands) 2003 2002 2001 ------------------------------------------ Basic shares 21,696 21,355 20,813 Effect of dilutive stock options 462 401 755 ------------------------------------------ Diluted shares 22,158 21,756 21,568 ========================================== Certain options to purchase common stock were outstanding but were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because the effect would be anti-dilutive. For the fiscal years ended February 1, 2003, February 2, 2002 and February 3, 2001, these options totaled 241,399, 288,374 and 241,049, respectively. Impact of New Accounting Standards In June 2001, the FASB issued SFAS No. 142, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets." SFAS No. 142 requires that goodwill be disclosed separately from other intangible assets in the balance sheet, and no longer be amortized but tested at least annually for impairment. The Company adopted SFAS No. 142 on February 3, 2002 and ceased amortizing $4.2 million of goodwill and $0.7 million in intangible assets as of that date. As required by this pronouncement, during the year, the Company completed the transitional and annual impairment tests, and based on the tests performed, there was no impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets that are not subject to amortization in fiscal 2002. There can be no assurance that future goodwill and other intangibles impairment tests will not result in a charge to earnings. At February 1, 2003, the gross carrying value of intangible assets, subject to amortization, was $3.1 million with accumulated amortization of $2.1 million. Amortization expense related to these assets, primarily lease rights, in fiscal 2002, 2001 and 2000 totaled approximately $136,000, $138,000 and $147,000, respectively. 39 CPWM The following table presents the impact of SFAS No. 142 on net income and net income per share had the accounting standard been in effect for fiscal 2002, 2001 and 2000. Fiscal Year Ended ------------------------------------------ February 1, February 2, February 3, (In thousands, except per share amounts) 2003 2002 2001 ------------------------------------------ Net income - as reported $ 28,386 $ 20,202 $ 21,672 Amortization of goodwill and other intangibles, net of tax - 190 172 Net income - adjusted $ 28,386 $ 20,392 $ 21,844 Basic net income per share - as reported $ 1.31 $ 0.95 $ 1.04 Basic net income per share - adjusted $ 1.31 $ 0.95 $ 1.05 Diluted net income per share - as reported $ 1.28 $ 0.93 $ 1.00 Diluted net income per share - adjusted $ 1.28 $ 0.94 $ 1.01 In August 2001, the FASB issued SFAS No. 144, "Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets." SFAS No. 144 establishes accounting and reporting standards for the impairment of long-lived assets and for long-lived assets to be disposed of. The Company adopted SFAS No. 144 in the first quarter of fiscal 2002. The initial adoption of SFAS No. 144 did not have a significant impact on the Company's reporting for impairments or disposals of long-lived assets. In June 2002, the FASB issued SFAS No. 146, "Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities," which addresses accounting for restructuring and similar costs. SFAS No. 146 supersedes previous accounting guidance included in Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) Issue No. 94-3. The Company has adopted the provisions of SFAS No. 146 for restructuring activities, if any, initiated after December 31, 2002. SFAS No. 146 requires that the liability for costs associated with an exit or disposal activity be recognized when the liability is incurred. Under Issue 94-3, a liability for an exit cost was recognized at the date of the Company's commitment to an exit plan. SFAS No. 146 also establishes that the liability should initially be measured and recorded at fair value. Accordingly, SFAS No. 146 may affect the timing of recognizing future restructuring costs as well as the amounts recognized. In December 2002, the FASB issued SFAS No. 148, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation - Transition and Disclosure." SFAS No. 148 amends SFAS No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation", to provide alternative methods of transition for a voluntary change to the fair value based method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation. In addition, SFAS No. 148 amends the disclosure requirements of SFAS No. 123 to require prominent disclosures in both annual and interim financial statements about the method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation and the effect of the method used on reported results. The transition guidance and annual disclosure provisions of SFAS No. 148 are effective for the Company's fiscal year ended February 1, 2003. The interim disclosure provisions are effective for the first quarter of the fiscal year ending January 31, 2004. The Company continues to account for stock-based compensation using the intrinsic value method in accordance with the provisions of APB Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees", as allowed by SFAS No. 123. As a result, the adoption of SFAS No. 148 did not have any impact on the Company's consolidated financial results. In November 2002, the FASB issued Interpretation (FIN) No. 45, "Guarantor's Accounting and Disclosure Requirements for Guarantees ,Including Indirect Guarantees of Indebtedness of Others." FIN No. 45 elaborates on the disclosures to be made by a guarantor in its interim and annual financial statements about obligations under certain guarantees that it has issued. It also requires that a guarantor recognize, at the inception of a guarantee, a liability for the fair value 40 CPWM of the obligation undertaken in issuing the guarantee. The disclosure requirements of FIN No. 45 are effective for interim and annual periods ending after December 15, 2002, and the initial recognition and measurement requirements are effective prospectively for guarantees issued or modified after December 31, 2002. The initial adoption of FIN No. 45 did not have a material impact on the Company's financial position or results of operations. In November 2002, the EITF reached a consensus regarding EITF Issue No. 02-16, "Accounting by a Customer (including a Reseller) for Certain Consideration Received from a Vendor." Issue No. 02-16 addresses the timing of recognition and classification of consideration received from vendors, including rebates and allowances. Issue No. 02-16 is effective for certain of the Company's vendor rebates and allowances commencing in November 2002 and others in January 2003. The adoption of Issue No. 02-16 did not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements. Note 2. Property and Equipment Property and equipment consist of the following: February 1, February 2, (In thousands) 2003 2002 ---------------------------- Land and land improvements $ 530 $ 530 Building and leasehold improvements 69,554 61,221 Furniture, fixtures and equipment 88,298 74,645 Facilities under capital leases 51,982 45,296 ---------------------------- Total 210,364 181,692 Less accumulated depreciation and amortization (89,464) (70,770) ---------------------------- Property and equipment, net $ 120,900 $ 110,922 ============================ Note 3. Other Assets Other assets consist of the following: February 1, February 2, (In thousands) 2003 2002 --------------------------------- Deferred income taxes $ 3,001 $ 4,500 Lease rights and interests 3,146 3,146 Other intangibles 1,439 1,400 Other 4,021 4,027 --------------------------------- Total 11,607 13,073 Less accumulated amortization (4,101) (3,786) --------------------------------- Other assets, net $ 7,506 $ 9,287 ================================= 41 CPWM Note 4. Leases The Company leases certain properties consisting of retail stores, distribution centers, the corporate office and equipment. Store leases typically contain initial terms and provisions for two to three renewal options of five to ten years each, with renewal periods from 2003 to 2040 at the then-current market rates. The retail stores, distribution centers and corporate office leases generally provide that the Company assumes the maintenance and all or a portion of the property tax obligations on the leased property. The minimum rental payments required under capital leases (with interest rates ranging from 3.2% to 12.7%) and non-cancelable operating leases with an initial lease term in excess of one year at February 1, 2003, are as follows: (In thousands) Capital Leases Operating Leases Total - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Fiscal year: 2003 $ 5,164 $ 50,382 $ 55,546 2004 5,164 49,283 54,447 2005 5,125 47,321 52,446 2006 5,115 45,693 50,808 2007 5,080 43,399 48,479 Thereafter through the year 2040 53,898 169,026 222,924 ------------------------------------------------------- Minimum lease commitments 79,546 $ 405,104 $ 484,650 =================================== Less amount representing interest (39,902) ---------------- Present value of capital lease obligations 39,644 Less current portion (1,672) ---------------- Long-term portion $ 37,972 ================ Accumulated depreciation related to capital leases was $14.0 million and $12.1 million at February 1, 2003 and February 2, 2002, respectively. Depreciation expense related to capital leases is classified as cost of sales and occupancy cost. For fiscal 2002, 2001 and 2000 such depreciation expense was $1.9 million, $1.0 million and $1.2 million, respectively. Interest expense related to capital leases was $3.5 million, $1.7 million and $1.8 million for fiscal 2002, 2001 and 2000, respectively. Minimum and contingent rental expense, which is based upon certain factors such as sales volume and property taxes, under operating and capital leases and sublease rental income are as follows: Fiscal Year Ended -------------------------------------------- February 1, February 2, February 3, (In thousands) 2003 2002 2001 -------------------------------------------- Operating leases: Minimum rental expense $ 44,828 $ 36,671 $ 28,488 Contingent rental expense 761 751 981 Less sublease rental income (1,084) (1,137) (1,070) -------------------------------------------- Total $ 44,505 $ 36,285 $ 28,399 ============================================ Capital leases - contingent rental expense $ 1,261 $ 1,119 $ 1,047 ============================================ 42 CPWM Total minimum rental income to be received from noncancelable sublease agreements through 2011 is approximately $2.8 million as of February 1, 2003. Note 5. Revolving Line of Credit The Company has an unsecured revolving line of credit agreement with a group of banks. The agreement allows for cash borrowings and letters of credit up to $30.0 million from January through June of each year, increasing to $75.0 million from July through December of each year to coincide with Holiday borrowing needs. Interest is paid quarterly in arrears on base rate loans and at each interest period applicable to IBOR loans (30, 60 and 90 days) based on the Company's election of the bank's reference rate or IBOR plus 0.9% from May 29, 2002 to June 1, 2003, increasing to IBOR plus 1.125% from June 2, 2003 to June 1, 2004 and IBOR plus 1.25% from June 2, 2004 to June 1, 2005. The agreement requires a 30-day "clean-up period" each year where outstanding credit advances, as defined in the agreement can (a) not exceed $20 million for not less than 30 consecutive days during the period from January 1, 2003 through March 31, 2003 and (b) must be zero for not less than 30 consecutive days during the period from January 1, 2004 through March 31, 2004 and from January 1, 2005 through March 31, 2005. The Company is subject to and in compliance with, certain financial covenants customary to such agreements. At the end of the last three fiscal years, the Company had no outstanding borrowings under its line of credit agreement. The Company had $10.7 million, $8.2 million and $4.1 million in outstanding letters of credit at the end of fiscal 2002, 2001 and 2000, respectively. Interest expense for borrowings under the credit agreement was $255,000, $172,000 and $167,000 for fiscal 2002, 2001 and 2000, respectively. Note 6. Income Taxes The provision for income taxes consists of the following: Fiscal Year Ended -------------------------------------------- February 1, February 2, February 3, (In thousands) 2003 2002 2001 -------------------------------------------- Current: Federal $ 10,276 $ 10,788 $ 13,442 State 799 1,894 2,517 -------------------------------------------- Total current 11,075 12,682 15,959 -------------------------------------------- Deferred: Federal 5,353 422 (1,788) State (4,012) (188) (315) -------------------------------------------- Total deferred 1,341 234 (2,103) -------------------------------------------- Provision for income taxes $ 12,416 $ 12,916 $ 13,856 ============================================ 43 CPWM The differences between the U.S. federal statutory tax rate and the Company's effective tax rate are as follows: Fiscal Year Ended --------------------------------------------- February 1, February 2, February 3, 2003 2002 2001 --------------------------------------------- U.S. federal statutory tax rate 35.0% 35.0% 35.0% State income taxes (net of U.S. federal income tax benefit) 2.4 3.3 4.0 Benefit of wage and other tax credits (7.5) - - Non-deductible expenses 0.2 0.2 0.3 Other 0.3 0.5 (0.3) --------------------------------------------- Effective income tax rate 30.4% 39.0% 39.0% ============================================= Significant components of the Company's deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows: February 1, February 2, (In thousands) 2003 2002 ---------------------------- Current deferred tax asset (liability): Deductible reserves and other $ 119 $ (39) Long-term deferred tax asset (liability): Deferred rent 3,640 3,154 Capital leases 272 12 Lease rights (402) (484) Depreciation (4,557) 922 Deferred compensation 451 546 Credit carryforward 3,161 - Other 436 350 ---------------------------- Total 3,001 4,500 ---------------------------- Net deferred tax assets $ 3,120 $ 4,461 ============================ At February 1, 2003, the Company had California state enterprise zone credit carryforwards of approximately $3.2 million which have no expiration date and are available to offset future California franchise taxes. Note 7. Equity and Stock Compensation Plans Shareholder Rights Plan Each outstanding share of common stock has a Preferred Share Purchase Right (expiring on June 30, 2008) which is exercisable only upon the occurrence of certain change in control events. Options The Company currently has options outstanding under two employee stock option plans: the 1994 Stock Option Plan (1994 Plan) and the 1995 Stock Option Plan (1995 Plan). The 1994 Plan permitted the granting of options to employees to purchase up to 1,940,976 shares of common stock at prices ranging from 85% to 100% of fair market value as of the date of grant. Options are exercisable over ten years and became fully vested upon the Company's initial public offering in April 1996. Upon approval of the 1995 Plan, the 1994 Plan was terminated except for options then outstanding. 44 CPWM The 1995 Plan permits the granting of options to employees and directors to purchase, at fair market value as of the date of grant, up to 5,968,006 shares of common stock, less the aggregate number of shares relating to options granted and outstanding under the 1994 Plan (821,120 at February 1, 2003). Options are exercisable over ten years and vest as determined by the Board of Directors, generally over three or four years. A 900,000 increase in the number of shares of common stock reserved for issuance was approved by the Board of Directors in February 2002 and by shareholders in June 2002 and is included in the share count above. On March 13, 1996, the Board of Directors approved the 1996 Director Stock Option Plan (Director Option Plan) which was last amended by the shareholders in June 2002. The Director Option Plan permits the granting of options to non-employee directors to purchase up to 403,675 shares of common stock at fair market value as of the date of grant. Options are exercisable over ten years and vest as determined by the Board of Directors, generally over four years. A 150,000 increase in the number of shares of common stock reserved for issuance was approved by the Board of Directors in February 2002 and by shareholders in June 2002 and is included in the share count above. A summary of activity under the Company's option plans is set forth below: Weighted Average Shares Exercise Price ---------------------------------- Outstanding at January 29, 2000 (366,508 exercisable at a weighted average price of $8.02) 1,719,177 $ 13.80 Granted 623,137 19.72 Exercised (467,685) 10.97 Canceled and expired (143,106) 19.51 ---------------------------------- Outstanding at February 3, 2001 (659,880 exercisable at a weighted average price of $13.89) 1,731,523 16.21 Granted 1,000,532 22.60 Exercised (527,889) 11.43 Canceled and expired (234,063) 20.56 ---------------------------------- Outstanding at February 2, 2002 (702,287 exercisable at a weighted average price of $18.27) 1,970,103 20.23 Granted 540,500 24.49 Exercised (291,215) 15.39 Canceled and expired (171,618) 22.52 ---------------------------------- Outstanding at February 1, 2003 2,047,770 $ 21.79 ================================== 45 CPWM The following table summarizes information about the weighted average remaining contractual life (in years) and the weighted average exercise prices for stock options both outstanding and exercisable as of February 1, 2003: Options Outstanding Options Exercisable - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------- Actual Range of Exercise Number Outstanding Remaining Life (Yrs.) Exercise Price Number of Shares Exercise Price - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------- $ 2.56 - $ 2.64 17,971 2.2 $ 2.60 17,971 $ 2.60 5.03 - 7.00 71,444 3.2 5.62 71,444 5.62 8.00 - 10.72 70,089 4.3 9.84 70,089 9.84 13.11 - 19.19 329,754 6.7 16.28 133,229 15.64 20.00 - 29.16 1,356,113 8.6 23.28 266,720 22.44 31.13 - 33.81 202,399 6.7 32.35 191,108 32.29 ------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------- 2,047,770 7.7 $ 21.79 750,561 $ 20.49 ============================================================= ================================= Employee Stock Purchase Plan On March 13, 1996, the Board of Directors approved the 1996 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (Purchase Plan). A total of 675,000 shares have been authorized for issuance under the Purchase Plan, of which 550,934 remain available for issue as of February 1, 2003. Employees who work at least 20 hours per week and more than five calendar months per calendar year and have been so employed for at least one year are eligible to have a specified percentage (not to exceed 10%) of each salary payment withheld to purchase common stock at 90% of its fair market value as of the last day of the purchase period. During fiscal 2002, 2001 and 2000, employees purchased approximately 14,385, 16,417 and 15,768 shares, respectively, of the Company's common stock under the Purchase Plan at weighted average per share prices of $24.71, $21.65 and $24.08, respectively. Note 8. Employee Benefit Plans The Company has a 401(k) plan for employees who meet certain service and age requirements. Participants may contribute up to 25% of their salaries to a maximum of $12,000 per year and participants age 50 or older may contribute an additional catch-up deferral amount up to $2,000 in 2003. The Company matches 50% of the first 4% of base salary that the employee contributes to the 401(k) plan. The Company contributed approximately $455,000 in fiscal 2002, $442,000 in fiscal 2001 and $328,000 in fiscal 2000. In addition, a non-qualified deferred compensation plan is available to certain employees whose benefits are limited under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Service Code. Compensation deferrals approximated $456,000 for fiscal 2002 and $685,000 for fiscal 2001. 46 CPWM Note 9. Commitments and Contingencies The Company is involved in litigation, claims and assessments incidental to its business, the disposition of which is not expected to have a material effect on the Company's financial position or results of operations. It is possible, however, that future results of operations for any particular quarterly or annual period could be materially affected by changes in the Company's assumptions related to these matters. The Company accrues its best estimate of the probable cost for the resolution of claims. When appropriate, such estimates are developed in consultation with outside counsel handling these matters and are based upon a combination of litigation and settlement strategies. To the extent additional information arises or the Company's strategies change, it is possible that the Company's best estimate of its probable liability may change. Note 10. Quarterly Information (unaudited) Fiscal Quarters Ended ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (In thousands, except per share data) May 4, 2002 August 3, 2002 November 2, 2002 February 1, 2003 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Net sales $ 134,349 $ 138,339 $ 149,886 $ 269,727 Gross profit 45,700 47,095 50,210 98,911 Net income (loss) 1,677 2,155 (712) 25,266 Net income (loss) per share Basic $ 0.08 $ 0.10 $ (0.03) $ 1.16 Diluted $ 0.08 $ 0.10 $ (0.03) $ 1.14 Fiscal Quarters Ended ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ (In thousands, except per share data) May 5, 2001 August 4, 2001 November 3, 2001 February 2, 2002 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Net sales $ 112,915 $ 112,101 $ 113,544 $ 229,912 Gross profit 37,261 37,342 36,294 84,627 Net income (loss) 1,233 1,509 (2,321) 19,781 Net income (loss) per share Basic $ 0.06 $ 0.07 $ (0.11) $ 0.93 Diluted $ 0.06 $ 0.07 $ (0.11) $ 0.91 47 CPWM Board of Directors and Shareholders Cost Plus, Inc. Oakland, California We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Cost Plus, Inc. and subsidiaries (the "Company") as of February 1, 2003 and February 2, 2002, and the related consolidated statements of operations, shareholders' equity and cash flows for each of the three fiscal years in the period ended February 1, 2003. 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 auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Cost Plus, Inc. and subsidiaries as of February 1, 2003 and February 2, 2002, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three fiscal years in the period ended February 1, 2003, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. /s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP San Francisco, California March 17, 2003 48 CPWM Cost Plus World Market Across the Country One Hundred Eighty-One Stores Nationwide* Alabama Birmingham Arizona Chandler Mesa Peoria Phoenix (2) Scottsdale (2) Tucson (2) California Bakersfield Brea Citrus Heights City of Industry Colma Concord Escondido Folsom Fremont Fresno Glendale La Jolla La Mesa Lakewood Los Angeles (2) Marin Mission Viejo Modesto Mountain View Northridge Oakland Oceanside Ontario Oxnard Palm Desert Pasadena Pleasanton Redding Roseville Sacramento San Diego San Dimas San Francisco San Jose (2) San Luis Obispo San Mateo Santa Ana Santa Barbara Santa Cruz Santa Rosa Sherman Oaks Stockton Temecula Thousand Oaks Torrance Tracy Valencia Vallejo Walnut Creek Woodland Hills Colorado Aurora Boulder Colorado Springs Denver (3) Thornton Georgia Atlanta (6) Idaho Boise Illinois Aurora Champaign Chicago (2) Evanston Gurnee Kildeer Normal Northbrook Oak Brook Orland Park Rockford Schaumburg Skokie St. Charles Indiana Carmel Iowa Des Moines Louisiana New Orleans (2) Baton Rouge Michigan Ann Arbor Auburn Hills Kentwood Lansing Novi Portage Rochester Hills Shelby Township Troy Westland Minnesota Minneapolis-St.Paul (4) Missouri Brentwood Chesterfield Kansas City Sunset Hills Nebraska Omaha Nevada Las Vegas (2) Reno New Mexico Albuquerque Santa Fe North Carolina Cary Charlotte (4) Durham Greensboro Winston-Salem Ohio Akron Avon Cincinnati (4) Columbus (3) Mayfield Heights Mentor North Canton North Olmsted Oregon Clackamas Eugene Gresham Portland Tigard Texas Austin (4) Dallas (3) Fort Worth Grapevine Houston (5) Plano (2) San Antonio (3) Virginia Arlington Fairfax Falls Church Kingstowne Newport News Sterling Washington Bellevue Lynnwood Redmond Seattle Spokane Tacoma Tukwila Woodinville Wisconsin Appleton Madison * As of April 10, 2003 49 CPWM Directors and Officers DIRECTORS Murray H. Dashe Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President Cost Plus, Inc. Joseph H. Coulombe/1/ Independent Management Consultant Barry J. Feld/2/ President, Chief Executive Officer Chairman, PCA International, Inc. Professional Photography Service Firm Danny W. Gurr/1/ President, Quarto Holdings, Inc. Illustrated Book Publisher Kim D. Robbins/2/ Independent Management Consultant Fredric M. Roberts/2/ President, F. M. Roberts and Company, Inc. Investment Banking Firm Thomas D. Willardson/1/ Independent Financial Consultant /1/ Member of the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors. /2/ Member of the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors. SENIOR OFFICERS Murray H. Dashe Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and President Gary D. Weatherford Executive Vice President, Operations Michael J. Allen Senior Vice President, Store Operations Joan S. Fujii Senior Vice President, Human Resources Stephen L. Higgins Senior Vice President, Merchandising John J. Luttrell Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Judith A. Soares Senior Vice President, Cost Plus Management Services, Inc. OFFICERS Jane L. Baughman Vice President, Financial Planning, Treasurer and Corporate Secretary Gail H. Fuller Vice President, Divisional Merchandise Manager, Trend Director Lisa J. Griffin Vice President, Planning and Allocation Patricia A. Juckett Vice President, Marketing and Advertising Cliff A. March Vice President, Information Services Chris M. Miller Vice President, Controller Janet L. Tucker Vice President, Divisional Merchandise Manager 50 CPWM [PHOTO OF JOSEPH H. COULOMBE, BARRY J. FELD, FREDRIC M. ROBERTS, MURRAY H.DASHE, DANNY W. GURR, KIM D. ROBBINS, THOMAS D. WILLARDSON] Board of Directors, pictured from left: Joseph H. Coulombe, Barry J. Feld, Fredric M. Roberts, Murray H. Dashe, Danny W. Gurr, Kim D. Robbins, Thomas D.Willardson CORPORATE DATA Corporate Headquarters Cost Plus, Inc. 200 4th Street Oakland, California 94607 www.costplusworldmarket.com Annual Report on Form 10-K A copy of the Company's fiscal 2002 Annual Report on Form 10-K as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is available to shareholders by contacting the Investor Relations Department at the address above or online at www.costplusworldmarket.com. Independent Auditors Deloitte & Touche LLP San Francisco, California Transfer Agent and Registrar Bank Boston c/o EquiServe, LP Boston, Massachusetts (781) 575-3120 Corporate Counsel Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati Palo Alto, California [Gift Card attached here] Use this gift card as cash at any Cost Plus World Market location. Card has no value until activated by cashier.