UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

(Mark One)

þ

QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the Quarterly Period Ended February 28, 2014

or

¨

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from _______to _______

Commission File Number

1-604

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes þNo o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company.  See definitions of "large accelerated filer", "accelerated filer" and "smaller reporting company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

The number of shares outstanding of the registrant's Common Stock, $.078125 par value, as of February 28, 2014 was 954,331,100.

WALGREEN CO.

FORM 10-Q FOR THE QUARTER ENDED FEBRUARY 28, 2014

PART II.  OTHER INFORMATION

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.  Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements (Unaudited)

The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements are an integral part of these Statements.

 

 

 

The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements are an integral part of these Statements.

 

 

 

The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements are an integral part of these Statements.

 

 

 

The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements are an integral part of these Statements.

The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements are an integral part of these Statements.

 

 

 

WALGREEN CO. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(UNAUDITED)

Note 1.  Basis of Presentation

The consolidated condensed financial statements of Walgreen Co. and subsidiaries (the Company) included herein have been prepared by the Company pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission regarding interim financial reporting.  The Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets as of February 28, 2014, August 31, 2013 and February 28, 2013, the Consolidated Condensed Statement of Equity for the six month period ended February 28, 2014, the Consolidated Condensed Statements of Earnings and Consolidated Condensed Statements of Comprehensive Income for the three and six months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013, and the Consolidated Condensed Statements of Cash Flows for the six months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013, have been prepared without audit.  Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America have been condensed or omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations, although the Company believes that the disclosures are adequate to make the information presented not misleading.  These unaudited consolidated condensed financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited financial statements and the notes thereto included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2013.

In the opinion of the Company, the consolidated condensed financial statements for the unaudited interim periods presented include all adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring adjustments) necessary to present a fair statement of the results for such interim periods.  Because of the influence of certain holidays, seasonality, changes in vendor, payer and customer relationships and terms and other factors on the Company's operations, net earnings for any interim period may not be comparable to the same interim period in previous years or indicative of net earnings for the full fiscal year. In addition, the positive impact on gross profit margins and gross profit dollars typically have been significant in the first several months after a generic version of a drug is first allowed to compete with the branded version, which is generally referred to as a "generic conversion."  In any given year, the number of major brand name drugs that undergo a conversion from branded to generic status can increase or decrease, which can have a significant impact on the Company's sales, gross profit margins and gross profit dollars.

The Company's 45% proportionate share of earnings in the Alliance Boots GmbH (Alliance Boots) equity method investment is included in consolidated net earnings and reported on a three-month lag. The Company reports its share of equity earnings in Alliance Boots within the operating section in the Consolidated Condensed Statements of Earnings because operations of Alliance Boots are integral to Walgreens.  The companies share common board of director members, recognize purchasing synergies through Walgreens Boots Alliance Development GmbH, a 50/50 joint venture, as well as engage in intercompany sales transactions on select front-end merchandise.  Because of the three-month lag and the timing of the closing of this investment, only the four months of August through November's results of operations are reflected in the equity earnings in Alliance Boots included in the Company's reported net earnings for the six month period ended February 28, 2013 compared to six months of operating results in the current fiscal year.

The Company directly owns a 50% interest in Walgreens Boots Alliance Development GmbH and indirectly owns an additional ownership interest through its 45% ownership in Alliance Boots, representing a direct and indirect economic interest of 72.5%.  The financial results of the Walgreens Boots Alliance Development GmbH joint venture are fully consolidated into the Company's consolidated condensed financial statements and reported without a lag.  As the joint venture is included within the Company's operating results, Alliance Boots proportionate share of Walgreens Boots Alliance Development GmbH earnings is removed from equity earnings and presented as a component of noncontrolling interests.

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to use judgment in the application of accounting policies, including making estimates and assumptions.  The Company bases its estimates on the information available at the time, its experience and on various other assumptions believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.  Adjustments may be made in subsequent periods to reflect more current estimates and assumptions about matters that are inherently uncertain.  Actual results may differ.  For a discussion of the Company's significant accounting policies, please see the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2013.

Note 2.  Inventories

Inventories are valued on a lower of last-in, first-out (LIFO) cost or market basis.  At February 28, 2014, August 31, 2013 and February 28, 2013, inventories would have been greater by $2.2 billion, $2.1 billion and $2.0 billion, respectively, if they had been valued on a lower of first-in, first-out (FIFO) cost or market basis.  LIFO inventory costs can only be determined annually when inflation rates and inventory levels are finalized; therefore, LIFO inventory costs for interim financial statements are estimated. Inventory includes product costs, inbound freight, warehousing costs and vendor allowances not classified as a reduction of advertising expense.

Note 3.  Liability for Closed Locations

The Company provides for future costs related to closed locations.  The liability is based on the present value of future rent obligations and other related costs (net of estimated sublease rent) to the first lease option date.  During the three and six month periods ended February 28, 2014, the Company recorded charges of $6 million and $33 million, respectively, for facilities that were closed or relocated under long-term leases.  This compares to $9 million and $35 million for the three and six month periods ended February 28, 2013, respectively.  These charges are reported in selling, general and administrative expenses on the Consolidated Condensed Statements of Earnings.

The changes in reserve for facility closings and related lease termination charges include the following (In millions):

Note 4.  Acquisitions

The aggregate purchase price of all business and intangible asset acquisitions was $297 million for the six months ended February 28, 2014.  In November 2013, the Company completed its acquisition of certain assets of Kerr Drug and its affiliates for $173 million, subject to adjustment in certain circumstances.  This acquisition included 76 retail locations as well as a specialty pharmacy business and a distribution center.  The preliminary purchase accounting for the Kerr Drug acquisition added $45 million to goodwill and $54 million to intangible assets, primarily prescription files and payer contracts, with $74 million allocated to net tangible assets.  This allocation is subject to change as the Company finalizes purchase accounting.

All other acquisitions added $17 million to goodwill and $81 million to intangible assets, primarily prescription files.  The remaining $26 million in fair values of business acquisitions in the period relate to immaterial amounts of tangible assets, less liabilities assumed.  Operating results of the businesses acquired have been included in the Consolidated Condensed Statements of Earnings from their respective acquisition dates forward.  Pro forma results of the Company, assuming all of the acquisitions had occurred at the beginning of each period presented, would not be materially different from the results reported.

Note 5.  Equity Method Investments

Equity method investments as of February 28, 2014 and 2013 were as follows (In millions, except percentages):

Alliance Boots

On August 2, 2012, pursuant to a Purchase and Option Agreement dated June 18, 2012, by and among the Company, Alliance Boots GmbH and AB Acquisitions Holdings Limited (the Purchase and Option Agreement), the Company acquired 45% of the issued and outstanding share capital of Alliance Boots in exchange for $4.025 billion in cash and approximately 83.4 million shares of Company common stock.  The Purchase and Option Agreement also provides, subject to the satisfaction or waiver of specified conditions, a call option that gives the Company the right, but not the obligation, to acquire the remaining 55% of Alliance Boots (second step transaction) in exchange for an additional £3.1 billion in cash (approximately $5.2 billion using February 28, 2014 exchange rates) as well as an additional 144.3 million shares of Company common stock, subject to certain adjustments.  If the Company exercises the call option, in certain limited circumstances, the Company may be required to make the entire second step transaction payment in cash.  The call option can be exercised by the Company during the six-month period beginning February 2, 2015.  In addition, in certain circumstances, if the Company does not exercise the call option, or the Company has exercised the call option but the second step transaction does not close, the Company's ownership of Alliance Boots will reduce from 45% to 42% in exchange for nominal consideration.

The call option was valued using a Monte Carlo simulation using assumptions surrounding Walgreens equity value as well as the potential impacts of certain provisions of the Purchase and Option Agreement that are described in the Form 8-K filed by the Company on June 19, 2012.  The call option is accounted for at cost and subsequently adjusted for foreign currency translation gains or losses.  The final purchase price allocation resulted in $6.1 billion of the total consideration being allocated to the investment and $866 million being allocated to the call option based on their relative fair values.

The Company accounts for its 45% investment in Alliance Boots using the equity method of accounting.   Investments accounted for under the equity method are recorded initially at cost and subsequently adjusted for the Company's share of the net income or loss and cash contributions and distributions to or from these entities.  Because the underlying net assets in Alliance Boots are denominated in a foreign currency, translation gains or losses impact the recorded value of the Company's investment.  The Company utilizes a three-month lag in reporting equity income in Alliance Boots, reported as equity earnings in Alliance Boots in the Consolidated Condensed Statements of Earnings.  The Company's investment is recorded as equity investment in Alliance Boots in the Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets.

In July 2013, the United Kingdom (UK) Government enacted a law to reduce the UK corporate tax rate applicable from April 2014.  The $71 million impact of this change from remeasuring deferred taxes was recorded in the first fiscal quarter due to the three-month lag.

Other Equity Method Investments

Other equity method investments relate to joint ventures associated with the Company's infusion and respiratory businesses.  These investments are primarily included within other non-current assets on the Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets.  The Company's share of equity income is reported within selling, general and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Condensed Statements of Earnings.

Summarized U.S. GAAP Financial Information

Summarized financial information for the Company's equity method investees is as follows:

Balance Sheet (In millions)

Income Statement (In millions)

⁽¹⁾ Net assets in Alliance Boots at February 28, 2014, are translated at the November 30, 2013 spot rate of $1.64 to one British pound Sterling, corresponding to the three-month lag.  Net assets at August 31, 2013 and February 28, 2013 are translated at the spot rates of $1.52 and $1.60 to one British pound Sterling, respectively.

⁽²⁾ Shareholders' equity at February 28, 2014, August 31, 2013 and February 28, 2013, includes $238 million, $374 million and $392 million respectively, related to noncontrolling interests.

⁽³⁾ The Company utilizes a three-month lag in reporting its share of equity income in Alliance Boots.  Earnings for the quarter and six month periods ended February 28, 2014 reflect incremental acquisition-related amortization expense of $10 million ($8 million net of tax) and $20 million ($16 million net of tax), respectively.  Incremental acquisition-related amortization for the three and six month periods ended February 28, 2013 were $28 million ($23 million net of tax) and $40 million ($33 million net of tax), respectively.  Earnings in Alliance Boots are translated at the average exchange rates of $1.61 and $1.57 to one British pound Sterling for the quarter and six month periods ended February 28, 2014, respectively.  Prior year's earnings in Alliance Boots were translated at the average exchange rates of $1.60 and $1.60 to one British pound Sterling for the quarter and six month periods ended February 28, 2013, respectively.  The prior year's six month period ended February 28, 2013 included only four month's results for Alliance Boots because of the three-month lag and the timing of the investment on August 2, 2012.  Walgreens Boots Alliance Development GmbH operations are excluded from these results as the Company consolidates the joint venture.

Note 6.  Available-for-Sale Investments

In conjunction with its long-term relationship with AmerisourceBergen Corporation (AmerisourceBergen), the Company acquired shares of AmerisourceBergen through open market transactions totaling $430 million for the six months ended February 28, 2014.  No AmerisourceBergen shares were purchased in the six month period ended February 28, 2013.  The Company's cumulative cost basis of common shares acquired was $654 million at February 28, 2014. The investment in AmerisourceBergen is classified as a long-term available-for-sale investment and reported at fair value within other non-current assets in the Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets.

The Company also holds other short-term investments with maturities greater than 90 days that are reported at fair value within other current assets in the Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets.

Fair value adjustments are based on quoted stock prices with the unrealized holding gains and losses reported in other comprehensive income.  Unrealized holding gains at February 28, 2014 and August 31, 2013, were $58 million and $1 million, respectively.  See Note 10 for additional fair value disclosures. Available-for-sale investments reported at fair value at February 28, 2014 and August 31, 2013, were $712 million and $225 million, respectively.

Note 7.  Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill consist of the following activity (In millions):

In November 2013, the Company purchased certain assets of Kerr Drug and its affiliates for $173 million, subject to adjustment in certain circumstances.  The Company recorded $45 million of goodwill and $54 million of intangible assets in conjunction with the preliminary purchase accounting for this acquisition.

The carrying amount and accumulated amortization of intangible assets, excluding intangibles related to Alliance Boots that are recorded within the equity method investment, consist of the following (In millions):

Amortization expense for intangible assets was $143 million and $149 million for the six months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  The estimated annual amortization expense related to intangible assets, not including amounts related to Alliance Boots that will be amortized through equity method income, is as follows (In millions):

Note 8.  Short-Term Borrowings and Long-Term Debt

Short-term borrowings and long-term debt consist of the following at February 28, 2014, August 31, 2013 and February 28, 2013 (In millions):

The Company issued commercial paper in the current fiscal year to support its working capital needs.  The short-term borrowings under the commercial paper program were as follows (In millions, except percentages):                     

In connection with the commercial paper program, the Company maintains two unsecured backup syndicated lines of credit that total $1.35 billion.  The first $500 million facility expires on July 20, 2015, and allows for the issuance of up to $250 million in letters of credit.  The second $850 million facility expires on July 23, 2017, and allows for the issuance of up to $200 million in letters of credit.  The issuance of letters of credit under either of these facilities reduces available borrowings.  The Company's ability to access these facilities is subject to compliance with the terms and conditions of the credit facilities, including financial covenants.  The covenants require the Company to maintain certain financial ratios related to the proportion of consolidated debt to total capitalization and priority debt, along with limitations on the sale of assets and purchases of investments.   At February 28, 2014, the Company was in compliance with all such covenants.  The Company pays a facility fee to the financing banks to keep these lines of credit active.  At February 28, 2014, there were no letters of credit issued against these credit facilities.  

On September 13, 2012, the Company obtained net proceeds from a public offering of $4.0 billion of notes with varying maturities and interest rates, the majority of which are fixed rate.  The following table details each tranche of notes issued:

The Company may redeem the fixed rate notes at its option, at any time in whole, or from time to time in part, at a redemption price equal to the greater of: (1) 100% of the principal amount of the notes being redeemed; and (2) the sum of the present values of the remaining scheduled payments of principal and interest thereon (not including any portion of such payments of interest accrued as of the date of redemption), discounted to the date of redemption on a semiannual basis (assuming a 360-day year consisting of twelve 30-day months) at the Treasury Rate (as defined), plus 12 basis points for the notes due 2015, 20 basis points for the notes due 2017, 22 basis points for the notes due 2022 and 25 basis points for the notes due 2042.  If a change of control triggering event occurs, the Company will be required, unless it has exercised its right to redeem the notes, to offer to purchase the notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of their principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, on the notes repurchased to the date of repurchase.  The notes are unsecured senior debt obligations and rank equally with all other unsecured and unsubordinated indebtedness of the Company.  Total issuance costs relating to the notes, including underwriting discounts and fees, were $26 million.  The fair value of the notes as of February 28, 2014, August 31, 2013 and February 28, 2013, was $4.0 billion, $3.9 billion and $4.0 billion, respectively.  Fair value for these notes was determined based upon quoted market prices.

On January 13, 2009, the Company issued notes totaling $1.0 billion bearing an interest rate of 5.250% paid semiannually in arrears on January 15 and July 15 of each year, beginning on July 15, 2009. The notes will mature on January 15, 2019. The Company may redeem the notes, at any time in whole or from time to time in part, at its option at a redemption price equal to the greater of: (1) 100% of the principal amount of the notes to be redeemed; or (2) the sum of the present values of the remaining scheduled payments of principal and interest, discounted to the date of redemption on a semiannual basis at the Treasury Rate, plus 45 basis points, plus accrued interest on the notes to be redeemed to, but excluding, the date of redemption.  If a change of control triggering event occurs, unless the Company has exercised its option to redeem the notes, it will be required to offer to repurchase the notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the principal amount of the notes plus accrued and unpaid interest to the date of redemption.  The notes are unsecured senior debt obligations and rank equally with all other unsecured senior indebtedness of the Company. The notes are not convertible or exchangeable.  Total issuance costs relating to this offering were $8 million, which included $7 million in underwriting fees.  The fair value of the notes as of February 28, 2014, August 31, 2013 and February 28, 2013 was $1.1 billion, $1.1 billion and $1.2 billion, respectively.  Fair value for these notes was determined based upon quoted market prices.

Note 9.  Financial Instruments

The Company uses derivative instruments to manage its interest rate exposure associated with some of its fixed-rate borrowings.  The Company does not use derivative instruments for trading or speculative purposes.  All derivative instruments are recognized in the Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets at fair value.  The Company designates interest rate swaps as fair value hedges of fixed-rate borrowings.  For derivatives designated as fair value hedges, the change in the fair value of both the derivative instrument and the hedged item are recognized in earnings in the current period.  At the inception of a hedge transaction, the Company formally documents the hedge relationship and the risk management objective for undertaking the hedge.  In addition, it assesses both at inception of the hedge and on an ongoing basis whether the derivative in the hedging transaction has been highly effective in offsetting changes in fair value of the hedged item and whether the derivative is expected to continue to be highly effective.  The impact of any ineffectiveness is recognized currently in earnings.

Counterparties to derivative financial instruments expose the Company to credit-related losses in the event of nonperformance, but the Company regularly monitors the creditworthiness of each counterparty.

Fair Value Hedges

For derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as fair value hedges, the gain or loss on the derivative, as well as the offsetting gain or loss on the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk, are recognized in interest expense on the Consolidated Condensed Statements of Earnings.

In prior fiscal years, the Company entered into a series of interest rate swaps converting $750 million of its 5.250% fixed rate notes to a floating interest rate based on the six-month LIBOR in arrears plus a constant spread.  The Company also entered into an interest rate swap converting $250 million of its 5.250% fixed rate notes to a floating interest rate based on the one-month LIBOR in arrears plus a constant spread.  All swap termination dates coincide with the notes maturity date, January 15, 2019.

The notional amounts of derivative instruments outstanding as of February 28, 2014, August 31, 2013 and February 28, 2013 were as follows (In millions):

The changes in fair value of the notes attributable to the hedged risk are included in short-term and long-term debt on the Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets (see Note 8).  At February 28, 2014, August 31, 2013 and February 28, 2013, the Company had fair value changes of $16 million, $3 million and $19 million, respectively.  The fair value and balance sheet presentation of derivative instruments at February 28, 2014, August 31, 2013 and February 28, 2013, were as follows (In millions):

Gains and losses relating to the ineffectiveness of the Company's derivative instruments are recorded in interest expense on the Consolidated Condensed Statements of Earnings.  For all periods presented, any gain or loss related to ineffectiveness was immaterial.

Warrants

The Company, Alliance Boots and AmerisourceBergen entered into a Framework Agreement dated as of March 18, 2013, pursuant to which (1) Walgreens and Alliance Boots together were granted the right to purchase a minority equity position in AmerisourceBergen, beginning with the right, but not the obligation, to purchase up to 19,859,795 shares of AmerisourceBergen common stock (approximately 7 percent of the then fully diluted equity of AmerisourceBergen, assuming the exercise in full of the warrants described below) in open market transactions; (2) the Company and Alliance Boots were each  issued (a) a warrant to purchase up to 11,348,456  shares of AmerisourceBergen common stock at an exercise price of $51.50 per share exercisable during a six-month period beginning in March 2016, and (b) a warrant to purchase up to 11,348,456 shares of AmerisourceBergen common stock at an exercise price of $52.50 per share exercisable during a six-month period beginning in March 2017.  The parties and affiliated entities also entered into certain related agreements governing relations between and among the parties thereto, including the Shareholders Agreement, the Transaction Rights Agreement and the Limited Liability Company Agreement of WAB Holdings LLC, a limited liability company jointly-owned by the Company and Alliance Boots for the purpose of acquiring and holding AmerisourceBergen common stock, described in the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 20, 2013.

The Company reports its warrants at fair value.  See Note 10 for additional fair value measurement disclosures.  The fair value and balance sheet presentation of derivative instruments not designated as hedges at February 28, 2014, August 31, 2013 and February 28, 2013, were as follows (In millions):

Note 10.  Fair Value Measurements

The Company measures its assets and liabilities in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures.  ASC Topic 820 defines fair value as the price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date.  In addition, it establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes observable and unobservable inputs used to measure fair value into three broad levels:

Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis were as follows (In millions):

⁽¹⁾Interest rate swaps are valued using six-month and one-month LIBOR in arrears rates.  See Note 9 for additional disclosure regarding financial instruments.

⁽²⁾The investment in AmerisourceBergen is valued using the closing stock price of AmerisourceBergen as of the balance sheet dates.  See Note 6 for additional disclosures on available-for-sale investments.

⁽³⁾Warrants were valued using a Monte Carlo simulation.  Key assumptions used in the valuation include risk-free interest rates using constant maturity treasury rates; the dividend yield for AmerisourceBergen's common stock; AmerisourceBergen's common stock price at the valuation date; AmerisourceBergen's equity volatility; the number of shares of AmerisourceBergen's common stock outstanding; the number of AmerisourceBergen employee stock options and the exercise price; and the details specific to the warrants.

The Company reports its debt instruments under the guidance of ASC Topic 825, Financial Instruments, which requires disclosure of the fair value of the Company's debt in the footnotes to the consolidated financial statements.  See Note 8 for further details.

Note 11.  Commitments and Contingencies

The Company is involved in legal proceedings and is subject to investigations, inspections, audits, inquiries and similar actions by governmental authorities, arising in the normal course of the Company's business, including the matters described below.  Litigation, in general, and securities and class action litigation, in particular, can be expensive and disruptive.  Some of these suits may purport or may be determined to be class actions and/or involve parties seeking large and/or indeterminate amounts, including punitive or exemplary damages, and may remain unresolved for several years. From time to time, the Company is also involved in legal proceedings as a plaintiff involving antitrust, tax, contract, intellectual property and other matters.  Gain contingencies are recognized when they are realized. The results of legal proceedings are often uncertain and difficult to predict, and the costs incurred in litigation can be substantial, regardless of the outcome. The Company believes that its defenses and assertions in pending legal proceedings have merit, and does not believe that any of these pending matters, after consideration of applicable reserves and rights to indemnification, will have a material adverse effect on the Company's consolidated financial position.  However, substantial unanticipated verdicts, fines and rulings do sometimes occur.  As a result, the Company could from time to time incur judgments, enter into settlements or revise our expectations regarding the outcome of certain matters, and such developments could have a material adverse effect on its results of operations in the period in which the amounts are accrued and/or its cash flows in the period in which the amounts are paid.   

On a quarterly basis, the Company assesses its liabilities and contingencies for outstanding legal proceedings and reserves are established on a case-by-case basis for those legal claims for which management concludes that it is probable that a loss will be incurred and that the amount of such loss can be reasonably estimated. Substantially all of these contingencies are subject to significant uncertainties and, therefore, determining the likelihood of a loss and/or the measurement of any loss can be complex.  With respect to litigation and other legal proceedings where the Company has determined that a loss is reasonably possible, the Company is unable to estimate the amount or range of reasonably possible loss in excess of amounts reserved due to the inherent difficulty of predicting the outcome of and uncertainties regarding such litigation and legal proceedings.  The Company's assessments are based on estimates and assumptions that have been deemed reasonable by management, but that may prove to be incomplete or inaccurate, and unanticipated events and circumstances may occur that might cause the Company to change those estimates and assumptions.  Therefore, it is possible that an unfavorable resolution of one or more pending litigation or other contingencies could have a material adverse effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements in a future fiscal period.  Management's assessment of current litigation and other legal proceedings, including the corresponding accruals, could change because of the discovery of facts with respect to legal actions or other proceedings pending against the Company which are not presently known.  Adverse rulings or determinations by judges, juries, governmental authorities or other parties could also result in changes to management's assessment of current liabilities and contingencies. Accordingly, the ultimate costs of resolving these claims may be substantially higher or lower than the amounts reserved. 

On June 11, 2013, the Company entered into a Settlement and Memorandum of Agreement (the Agreement) with the United States Department of Justice and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) that settled and resolved all administrative and civil matters arising out of DEA's previously-disclosed concerns relating to the Company's distribution and dispensing of controlled substances.  Under the terms of the Agreement, the Company paid an $80 million settlement amount, surrendered its DEA registrations for six pharmacies in Florida until May 26, 2014, and for its Jupiter, Florida distribution center until Sept. 13, 2014, and agreed to implement certain remedial actions.  In addition, the Company dismissed with prejudice its petition with the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit that challenged certain enforcement authority of the DEA.  On July 31, 2013 and August 13, 2013, putative shareholders filed derivative actions in federal court in the Northern District of Illinois against the Walgreens Board of Directors and Walgreen Co. as a nominal defendant (collectively, the defendants), arising out of the Company's June 2013 settlement with the DEA described above.  The actions assert claims for breach of fiduciary duty on the grounds that the directors allegedly should have prevented the events that led to the settlement.  The plaintiffs filed an amended consolidated complaint on October 4, 2013, pursuant to which they seek damages and other relief on behalf of the Company.  The defendants filed their motion to dismiss on December 3, 2013.  Subsequent thereto, the plaintiffs filed an opposition brief on February 7, 2014 and the defendants filed their reply brief on March 10, 2014.

Note 12.  Stock Compensation Plans

The Walgreen Co. Omnibus Incentive Plan (the Omnibus Plan), which became effective in fiscal 2013, provides for incentive compensation to Walgreens non-employee directors, officers and employees, and consolidates into a single plan several previously existing equity compensation plans: the Executive Stock Option Plan, the Long-Term Performance Incentive Plan, the Broad Based Employee Stock Option Plan, and the Nonemployee Director Stock Plan (collectively, the Former Plans). As of the effective date of the Omnibus Plan, no further grants may be made under the Former Plans and shares that were previously available for issuance under the Former Plans and not subject to outstanding awards became available for issuance (in addition to newly authorized shares) under the Omnibus Plan.  A total of 60.4 million shares became available for delivery under the Omnibus Plan.

The Company granted 149,684 and 6,534,762 stock options under the Omnibus Plan for the quarter and six month period ended February 28, 2014, respectively.  This compares to 209,610 and 8,205,664 stock options granted in the quarter and six month periods ended under the Omnibus and Former Plans last year.  Stock options granted in the current fiscal year had a weighted-average grant-date fair value of $12.74 using weighted average volatility, dividend yield and expected option life assumptions of 26.21%. 2.48% and 6.87 years, respectively, using the Black Scholes option pricing model.  Total stock-based compensation expense was $31 million for the quarter and $52 million for the six month period ended February 28, 2014, compared to $25 million and $45 million for the same periods last year.  In accordance with ASC Topic 718 Compensation – Stock Compensation, compensation expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the employee's vesting period or to the employee's retirement eligible date, if earlier.  The recognized retiree eligible expense recorded in the quarter and six month period ended February 28, 2014, was $5 million and $8 million respectively, compared to $2 million and $3 million for the same periods in the prior year.  Compensation expense for any individual quarter may not be representative of compensation expense for the entire fiscal year.  

The Company granted 30,122 and 641,009 restricted stock units under the Omnibus Plan for the quarter and six month periods ended February 28, 2014, compared to 134,885 and 917,322 restricted stock units granted under the Omnibus Plan and former Walgreen Co. Long-Term Performance Incentive Plan in the same periods last year.  Restricted stock units granted in the first quarter had a grant date stock price of $60.52.  Dividends issued under the program, paid in the form of additional restricted stock units, totaled 19,159 units for the quarter ended and 40,457 for the six months ended February 28, 2014 versus 18,457 units and 39,465 units in the same periods last year.  The Company also granted 5,807 and 702,939 performance shares under the Omnibus Plan for the quarter and six months ended February 28, 2014 versus 10,798 and 894,046 shares in the same periods last year.    Performance shares granted in the first quarter had a grant date stock price of $60.52.  In accordance with ASC Topic 718, compensation expense is recognized on a straight line basis based on a three year cliff vesting schedule for restricted stock unit awards and straight line over a three year performance period, based on performance targets, for performance share awards.   For the quarter and six months period ended February 28, 2014, the Company recognized $16 million and $26 million, of expense related to these plans, respectively.  In the same periods last year, the Company recognized $11 million and $19 million of expense.

Note 13.  Earnings Per Share

The dilutive effect of outstanding stock options on earnings per share is calculated using the treasury stock method.  Stock options are anti-dilutive and excluded from the earnings per share calculation if the exercise price exceeds the average market price of the common shares.  Outstanding options to purchase common shares that were anti-dilutive and excluded from the second quarter earnings per share calculation totaled 6,347,469 and 16,469,909 at February 28, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  Anti-dilutive shares excluded from the year to date earnings per share calculation were 4,343,079 and 22,088,145 in fiscal 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Note 14.  Retirement Benefits

The principal retirement plan for employees is the Walgreen Profit-Sharing Retirement Trust to which both the Company and participating employees contribute.  The Company's contribution, which has historically related to FIFO earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) and a portion of which is in the form of a guaranteed match, is determined annually at the discretion of the Board of Directors.  The profit-sharing provision was $85 million for the quarter and $165 million for the six month period of fiscal 2014 compared to $89 million and $171 million in the same periods last year.

The Company provides certain health insurance benefits for retired employees who meet eligibility requirements, including age and years of service.  The costs of these benefits are accrued over the service life of the employee. The Company's postretirement health benefit plan is not funded.

Components of net periodic benefit costs (In millions):

Note 15.  Depreciation and Amortization

The Company has recorded the following depreciation and amortization expense in the Consolidated Condensed Statements of Earnings (In millions):

Amortization expense for the three month and six month periods ended February 28, 2014 of $19 million, net of tax ($8 million from the step up of certain Alliance Boots assets and $11 million representing the Company's share of amortization within Alliance Boots operations) and $40 million, net of tax ($16 million from the step up of certain Alliance Boots assets and $24 million representing the Company's share of amortization within Alliance Boots operations), respectively is included in equity earnings in Alliance Boots on the Consolidated Condensed Statements of Net Earnings.  This compares to amortization expense of $35 million, net of tax ($23 million from the step up of certain Alliance Boots assets and $12 million representing the Company's share of amortization within Alliance Boots operations) and $49 million, net of tax ($33 million from the step up of certain Alliance Boots assets and $16 million representing the Company's share of amortization within Alliance Boots operations), respectively, for the quarter and six month periods ended February 28, 2013.

Note 16.  Supplemental Cash Flow

Significant non-cash transactions in the six month period ended February 28, 2014, included $282 million for additional capital lease obligations. Cash interest paid for the six month period ended was $67 million compared to $51 million in the prior year's six month period.  Cash paid for income taxes was $674 million and $543 million in the six months ended February 2014 and 2013, respectively.

Note 17.  Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In May 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) reissued an exposure draft on lease accounting that would require entities to recognize assets and liabilities arising from lease contracts on the balance sheet.  The proposed exposure draft states that lessees and lessors should apply a "right-of-use model" in accounting for all leases.  Under the proposed model, lessees would recognize an asset for the right to use the leased asset, and a liability for the obligation to make rental payments over the lease term.  When measuring the asset and liability, variable lease payments are excluded, whereas renewal options that provide a significant economic incentive upon renewal would be included.  The accounting by a lessor would reflect its retained exposure to the risks or benefits of the underlying leased asset.  A lessor would recognize an asset representing its right to receive lease payments based on the expected term of the lease.  The lease expense from real estate based leases would continue to be recorded under a straight-line approach, but other leases not related to real estate would be expensed using an effective interest method that would accelerate lease expense.  A final standard is currently expected to be issued in 2014 and would be effective no earlier than annual reporting periods beginning on January 1, 2017 (fiscal 2018 for the Company).  The proposed standard, as currently drafted, would have a material impact on the Company's financial position and the impact on the Company's reported results of operations is being evaluated.  The impact of this exposure draft is non-cash in nature and would not affect the Company's cash position.

Note 18.  Subsequent Events

The Company paid in full its $550 million unsecured variable rate notes that matured on March 13, 2014.

 

On March 24, 2014, the Company's Board of Directors approved a plan to close 76 underperforming stores in order to optimize and focus resources in a manner intended to increase shareholder value. The Company estimates that total pre-tax charges associated with the plan will be between $240 and $280 million, largely attributable to lease termination costs. The Company expects that substantially all of the charges will be recognized during the third and fourth quarters of fiscal 2014.

 

Item 2.  Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read together with the financial statements and the related notes included elsewhere herein and our consolidated financial statements, accompanying notes and Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended August 31, 2013.  This discussion contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties.  Our actual results may differ materially from those discussed in forward-looking statements.  Factors that might cause a difference include, but are not limited to, those discussed under "Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements" below and in Item 1A "Risk Factors" in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended August 31, 2013.

INTRODUCTION

Walgreens is principally a retail drugstore chain that sells prescription and non-prescription drugs and general merchandise.  General merchandise includes, among other things, household items, convenience and fresh foods, personal care, beauty care, photofinishing and candy.  We offer customers the choice to have prescriptions filled at our retail pharmacies as well as through the mail, telephone or online including through our mobile application.  At February 28, 2014, we operated 8,681 locations in 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.  Total locations do not include 408 Healthcare Clinics that are operated primarily within other Walgreens locations or locations of unconsolidated partially owned entities such as Alliance Boots GmbH (Alliance Boots).

The drugstore industry is highly competitive where we compete with other drugstore chains, independent drugstores and mail order prescription providers.  We also compete with various other retailers including grocery stores, convenience stores, mass merchants, online pharmacies, warehouse clubs and dollar stores.

Our sales, gross profit margin and gross profit dollars are impacted by, among other things, both the percentage of prescriptions that we fill that are generic and the rate at which new generic drugs are introduced to the market.  In general, generic versions of drugs generate lower total sales dollars per prescription, but higher gross profit margins and gross profit dollars, as compared with patent-protected brand name drugs.  The positive impact on gross profit margins and gross profit dollars typically has been significant in the first several months after a generic version of a drug is first allowed to compete with the branded version, which is generally referred to as a "generic conversion."  In any given year, the number of major brand name drugs that undergo a conversion from branded to generic status can increase or decrease, which can have a significant impact on our sales, gross profit margins and gross profit dollars.  Because any number of factors outside of our control or ability to foresee can affect timing for a generic conversion, we face substantial uncertainty in predicting when such conversions will occur and what effect they will have on particular future periods.

The long-term outlook for prescription utilization is strong due in part to the aging population, the increasing utilization of generic drugs, the continued development of innovative drugs that improve quality of life and control health care costs, and the expansion of health care insurance coverage under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (the ACA).  The ACA seeks to reduce federal spending by altering the Medicaid reimbursement formula (AMP) for multi-source drugs, and when implemented, is expected to reduce Medicaid reimbursements.  State Medicaid programs are also expected to continue to seek reductions in reimbursements independent of AMP.  We continuously face reimbursement pressure from pharmacy benefit management (PBM) companies, health maintenance organizations, managed care organizations and other commercial third party payers; our agreements with these payers are regularly subject to expiration, termination or renegotiation.  In addition, plan changes typically occur in January and in fiscal 2013, the high rate of introduction of new generic drugs moderated the impact of any associated rate adjustments. We experienced a significantly lower rate of new generic introductions in the first six months of fiscal 2014, as compared to the same period last year.  We anticipate this effect to moderate in the third quarter and become positive in the fourth quarter of the current fiscal year.

On July 19, 2012, Walgreens and Express Scripts announced their entry into a new multi-year agreement pursuant to which Walgreens began participating in the broadest Express Scripts retail pharmacy provider network available to Express Scripts clients as of September 15, 2012.  From January 1, 2012, until September 14, 2012, however, Express Scripts' network did not include Walgreens pharmacies.  The positive impact of this agreement generally has been incremental over time since September 15, 2012.

Periodically, we make strategic acquisitions and investments that fit our long-term growth objectives.  Consideration is given to retail, health and well-being enterprises and other potential acquisitions and investments that provide unique opportunities and fit our business objectives.  In the first quarter of fiscal 2014, we acquired certain assets of Kerr Drug and its affiliates, which includes 76 retail drugstore locations, as well as a specialty pharmacy business and a distribution center, all based in North Carolina.  In fiscal 2013, we acquired Stephen L. LaFrance Holdings, Inc. (USA Drug), which included 141 drugstore locations operating under the USA Drug, Super D Drug, May's Drug, Med-X and Drug Warehouse names.  Additionally, we acquired an 80% interest in Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Pharmacy LLC.  This investment provides joint ownership in a specialty pharmacy for cystic fibrosis patients and their families in addition to providing new product launch support and call center services for drug manufacturers.

In August 2012, we acquired a 45% equity interest in Alliance Boots GmbH and a call option that provides Walgreens the right, but not the obligation, to purchase the remaining 55% over a six month period beginning February 2, 2015.  Additional information regarding our investment in Alliance Boots is available in our Current Reports on Form 8-K filed on June 19, 2012 and August 6, 2012 (as amended by the Form 8-K/A filed on September 10, 2012).   The amendment to our August 6, 2012 Form 8-K filed on September 10, 2012, includes as exhibits thereto Alliance Boots audited consolidated financial statements for the years ended March 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 (prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board) and unaudited pro forma consolidated financial information related to our 45% investment in Alliance Boots.  Alliance Boots audited consolidated financial statements for the years ended March 31, 2013 and 2012 (prepared in accordance with IFRS) are available on our Form 8-K filed on May 15, 2013.  We account for our 45% investment in Alliance Boots using the equity method of accounting.  Investments accounted for under the equity method are recorded initially at cost and subsequently adjusted for our share of the net income or loss and cash contributions and distributions to or from these entities.  Net income reported by Alliance Boots is translated from British pounds Sterling at the average rate for the period.  See Note 5 to our unaudited Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements for additional information regarding our equity method investments.  We utilize a three-month lag in reporting equity income from our investment in Alliance Boots, reported as equity earnings in Alliance Boots on the Consolidated Condensed Statements of Earnings.  The investment is recorded as equity investment in Alliance Boots in the Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets.

Fiscal 2014 combined synergies across both companies are estimated to be between $375 million and $425 million. The three-month lag impacts the quarterly and fiscal year timing of when Alliance Boots results and synergies will be reflected in the equity earnings in Alliance Boots included in our financial statements.  See "Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements" below.

The Alliance Boots business is seasonal in nature, typically generating a higher proportion of revenue and earnings in the winter holiday and cold and flu season. Because we utilize a three-month lag in reporting equity income from our investment in Alliance Boots, the results of Alliance Boots for December, January and February will be reflected in the equity income included in our financial statements for the fiscal quarter ending May 31.  See "Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements" below.

On March 19, 2013, the Company, Alliance Boots GmbH and AmerisourceBergen Corporation (AmerisourceBergen) announced various agreements and arrangements, including a ten-year pharmaceutical distribution agreement between Walgreens and AmerisourceBergen pursuant to which we will source branded and generic pharmaceutical products from AmerisourceBergen; an agreement which provides AmerisourceBergen the ability to access generics and related pharmaceutical products through Walgreens Boots Alliance Development GmbH, a global sourcing joint venture between Walgreens and Alliance Boots; and agreements and arrangements pursuant to which we and Alliance Boots together have the right, but not the obligation, to purchase a minority equity position in AmerisourceBergen and gain associated representation on AmerisourceBergen's board of directors in certain circumstances. AmerisourceBergen began to distribute all branded pharmaceutical products that we historically sourced from distributors and suppliers, effective September 1, 2013. In the second quarter of fiscal year 2014, AmerisourceBergen began distributing generic pharmaceutical products that we previously self-distributed. We expect the levels of generic pharmaceuticals distributed by AmerisourceBergen to continue to increase throughout the fiscal year. In addition to the information in this report, please refer to our Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 20, 2013 and our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on March 25, 2013 for more detailed information regarding these agreements and arrangements. See "Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements" below.

Investments accounted for under the equity method are recorded initially at cost and subsequently adjusted for our share of the net income or loss and cash contributions and distributions to or from these entities. Our investment in Alliance Boots and the related call option were recorded as assets with a $7.7 billion aggregate value on our February 28, 2014 Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets, which represented 30.8% of our long-lived assets as of that date.  Because our investment in Alliance Boots is denominated in a foreign currency (British pounds Sterling), translation gains or losses impact the value of the investment.  See Note 5 to our unaudited Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements for additional information.

RECENT DEVELOPMENT

 

On March 24, 2014, our Board of Directors approved a plan to close 76 underperforming stores in efforts to optimize and focus resources in a manner intended to increase shareholder value. We estimate that total pre-tax charges associated with the plan will be between $240 million and $280 million, largely attributable to lease termination costs. We expect that substantially all of these charges will be recognized during the third and fourth quarters of fiscal 2014. This store optimization plan is expected to result in an annual operating income benefit of $40 million to $50 million beginning in fiscal 2015. The amounts and timing of all estimates are subject to change. The actual amounts and timing may vary materially based on various factors, including the timing of closings; the timing and amount of sublease income and other lease expense; factors relating to real estate including sale proceeds; asset write-downs and other factors affecting inventory value; changes in management's assumptions; and other factors. See "Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements" below.

 

OPERATING STATISTICS

* Includes the adjustment to convert prescriptions greater than 84 days to the equivalent of three 30-day prescriptions. This adjustment reflects the fact that these prescriptions include approximately three times the amount of product days supplied compared to a normal prescription.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Net earnings attributable to Walgreen Co. for the second quarter ended February 28, 2014, were $754 million, or $.78 per diluted share.  This was a 0.3% decrease in net earnings over the same quarter last year.  The net earnings decrease in the quarter was primarily attributable to lower gross margins and a loss on fair market value adjustments related to the AmerisourceBergen warrants mostly offset by higher net sales, lower selling, general and administrative expenses as a percent of sales, higher equity earnings in Alliance Boots and a lower effective income tax rate.  Included in the second quarter net earnings and net earnings per diluted share, respectively, was $60 million, or $.06 per diluted share, in acquisition-related amortization; $47 million, or $.05 per diluted share, in Alliance Boots related tax; $33 million, or $.04 per diluted share, from the quarter's LIFO provision; income of $26 million, or $.03 per diluted share, related to combined fair value adjustments and amortization related to both our and Alliance Boots warrants to purchase AmerisourceBergen common stock; $11 million, or $.01 per diluted share, of other acquisition-related costs and $1 million of organizational efficiency costs.  Included in the second quarter ended February 28, 2013 net earnings and net earnings per diluted share, respectively, was $71 million, or $.08 per diluted share, in acquisition-related amortization; $46 million, or $.05 per diluted share, from the quarter's LIFO provision; $42 million, or $.04 per diluted share, in Alliance Boots related tax; $13 million, or $.01 per diluted share, of acquisition-related costs; $13 million, or $.01 per diluted share, from an additional gain on the 2011 sale of the Walgreens Health Initiatives, Inc. business relating to a client retention escrow.

For the six month period ended February 28, 2014, net earnings increased 23.9% to $1,449 million or $1.51 per diluted share.  The net earnings increase for the six month period was primarily attributable to higher net sales, lower selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of sales, higher equity earnings in Alliance Boots, fair market value gains related to the AmerisourceBergen warrants and a lower effective tax rate partially offset by lower gross margins.  Included in the six month period net earnings and net earnings per diluted share, respectively, was $187 million, or $.20 per diluted share, related to combined fair value adjustments and amortization related to both our and Alliance Boots warrants to purchase AmerisourceBergen common stock; $118 million, or $.12 per diluted share, in acquisition-related amortization; $75 million, or $.08 per diluted share, in Alliance Boots related tax;  $70 million, or $.07 per diluted share, from the six months' LIFO provision; $27 million, or $.03 per diluted share, of acquisition-related costs and $16 million, or $.02 per diluted share, of organizational efficiency costs.  Included in the six month period ending February, 28, 2013, net earnings and net earnings per diluted share, respectively, was $130 million, or $.14 per diluted share, in acquisition-related amortization; $80 million, or $.08 per diluted share, from the quarter's LIFO provision; $42 million, or $.04 per diluted share, in Alliance Boots related tax; $36 million, or $.03 per diluted share, of acquisition-related costs; $24 million, or $.03 per diluted share, in costs related to Hurricane Sandy; and $13 million, or $0.01 per diluted share, from an additional gain on the 2011 sale of the Walgreens Health Initiatives, Inc. business relating to a client retention escrow.

Net sales for the quarter ended February 28, 2014, increased by 5.1% to $19.6 billion.  Sales increased from new stores, each of which includes an indeterminate amount of market-driven price changes, and higher comparable store sales.  Sales in comparable drugstores were up 4.3% in the quarter ended February 28, 2014.  Comparable drugstores are defined as those that have been open for at least twelve consecutive months without closure for seven or more consecutive days and without a major remodel or a natural disaster in the past twelve months.  Relocated and acquired stores are not included as comparable stores for the first twelve months after the relocation or acquisition.  We operated 8,681 locations (8,210 drugstores) as of February 28, 2014, compared to 8,537 locations (8,072 drugstores) a year earlier.

Prescription sales increased by 7.0% in the current quarter and 7.2% for the first six months, representing 62.2% and 63.4% of total net sales, respectively.  In the prior year, prescription sales were flat in the quarter and decreased 3.7% year to date, representing 61.1% and 62.4% of total net sales, respectively. Comparable drugstore prescription sales were up 5.8% in the current quarter and 6.5% for the six month period.  The effect of generic drugs, which have a lower retail price, replacing brand name drugs reduced prescription sales by 1.3% in the current quarter and 1.1% for the first six months versus reductions of 5.9% and 7.3% in the same periods last year.  The effect of generics on total net sales was a reduction of 0.7% in the current quarter and 0.6% year to date compared to reductions of 3.2% for the quarter and 4.0% for the first six months last year.  Third party sales, where reimbursement is received from managed care organizations, the government, employers or private insurers, were 96.2% of prescription sales for both the quarter and for the six month periods ended February 28, 2014 compared to 95.3% for the quarter and 95.5% for the six month period last year.  We receive market driven reimbursements from third party payers, a number of which typically reset in January.  The total number of prescriptions filled for the current quarter (including immunizations) was approximately 175 million compared to 174 million for the same period last year.  Prescriptions adjusted to 30 day equivalents were 214 million in the current quarter versus 208 million in last year's quarter.

Front-end sales increased 2.2% for the current quarter and were 37.8% of total net sales.  For the six months ended February 28, 2014, front-end sales increased 2.7% and comprised 36.6% of total net sales.  In comparison, prior year front end sales decreased 0.1% for the quarter and were flat for the six month period, and comprised 38.9% and 37.6% of total net sales. Comparable drugstore front-end sales increased 2.0% for the current quarter and 2.2% year to date compared to the prior year which decreased 2.6% and 2.3% in the quarter and year to date periods, respectively.   The increase in comparable front-end sales in the current quarter was primarily attributed to an increase in basket size partially offset by lower customer traffic.

Gross margin as a percent of sales was 28.8% in the current quarter and 28.5% for the first six months compared to 30.1% and 29.8% last year.  Retail pharmacy margins were negatively impacted by a significant reduction in the number of brand to generic drug conversions and lower market driven reimbursements.  Front-end margins were negatively impacted in the convenience and fresh foods, non-prescription drug, photofinishing and household item categories.  Retail pharmacy and front-end margins were positively impacted by purchasing synergies realized from the joint venture formed by Walgreens and Alliance Boots.

Gross profit dollars for the quarter and six month periods ended February 28, 2014 increased $43 million, or 0.8%, and $96 million, or 0.9%, respectively, compared to the same periods last year.  The increase is attributed to higher sales volumes partially offset by lower retail pharmacy and front-end margins.

We use the LIFO method of inventory valuation, which can only be determined annually when inflation rates and inventory levels are finalized; therefore, LIFO inventory costs for the interim financial statements are estimated. Cost of sales included a LIFO provision of $51 million and $109 million for the quarter and six month periods ended February 28, 2014, respectively, versus $72 million and $127 million in the same periods a year ago.  In the current quarter, our estimated annual inflation rate decreased from 2.75% to 2.50%, primarily due to lower forecasted prescription drug inventory levels.    In the prior year's quarter, the estimated annual inflation rate increased from 2.50% to 2.75% primarily due to higher than anticipated prescription drug inflation.

Selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of sales were 23.3% for the current year's second quarter and 23.6% for the first six months compared to 24.1% and 24.7% in the same periods a year ago.  As a percentage of sales, expenses in the current quarter were lower primarily due to lower store compensation costs, legal expenses and promotional costs associated with the Company's loyalty program partially offset by higher weather-related costs.  Expenses for the six month period as a percentage of sales were lower primarily due to lower store compensation costs and loyalty expenses, partially offset by higher weather-related costs.  Included in the prior year's six month period were expenses related to Hurricane Sandy and higher investments in strategic initiatives and capabilities.

Selling, general and administrative expense dollars increased $72 million or 1.6% over the prior year's quarter and $53 million or 0.6% over the prior year's six month period.  The current quarter's growth includes 1.3% of new store expenses and 0.4% of comparable store and headquarters expenses which were partially offset by lower acquisition related costs of 0.1%.  Growth for the six month period ended February 28, 2014 included 1.3% of new store expenses and 0.2% of organizational efficiency costs.  These were partially offset by lower comparable store and headquarters expenses of 0.2% and acquisition related costs of 0.3%.  In addition, Hurricane Sandy costs in the prior year were 0.4%.

Equity earnings in the 45% Alliance Boots equity method investment for the three month period ended February 28, 2014 was $194 million compared to $85 million last year. The current quarter included $99 million in fair value adjustments and amortization related to Alliance Boots warrants to purchase AmerisourceBergen common stock. Earnings also reflect $10 million, $8 million net of tax, of incremental acquisition-related amortization in the current quarter compared to amortization of $28 million in the prior year's quarter, $23 million net of tax, of which $13 million related to inventory.

 

Equity earnings in the 45% Alliance Boots equity method investment for the six month period ended February 28, 2014 was $345 million as compared to $89 million last year. Alliance Boots earnings are reported on a three-month lag. As a result, the six month period ended February 28, 2013 only included August through November's results of operations of Alliance Boots reflected in the equity earnings in Alliance Boots due to the timing of this investment. Earnings in the first six months of the current year included $118 million in fair value adjustments and amortization related to Alliance Boots warrants to purchase AmerisourceBergen common stock and $71 million from remeasuring deferred tax balances related to UK tax law changes enacted in July 2013. Earnings also reflect $20 million, $16 million net of tax, of incremental acquisition-related amortization in the current six month period compared to amortization of $40 million in the prior year period, $33 million net of tax, $19 million of which was related to inventory.

 

Other income/(expense) for the three and six month periods ended February 28, 2014 was $59 million expense and $166 million income, respectively.  The change in fair value of our AmerisourceBergen warrants resulted in recording other expense of $64 million in the quarter and income of $156 million for the six month period, primarily attributable to the change in the price of AmerisourceBergen's common stock.  In addition, we recorded $5 million and $10 million in the quarter and six month periods, respectively, of other income relating to the amortization of the deferred credit associated with the initial value of the warrants.

Interest was a net expense of $37 million in the quarter and $78 million year to date compared to $23 million and $60 million for the prior quarter and year to date, respectively. The current and prior year's interest expense is net of $1 million in the quarter and $3 million year to date, which was capitalized to construction projects.  The prior year's interest expense was reduced by a $19 million receipt of interest income related to late payments of state Medicaid receivables.

The effective tax rate for the quarter was 34.9% compared to 36.6% for the prior year's quarter. For the six month period, the effective tax rate was 35.7% compared to 37.1% in the prior year.  The decrease in the current quarter and year to date effective tax rates, as compared the rate for the same periods in the prior year, is primarily attributed to foreign source income taxed at a lower rate, partly offset by increases to estimated permanent differences between book and tax income.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Cash and cash equivalents were $1.8 billion at February 28, 2014, compared to $2.4 billion at February 28, 2013. Short-term investment objectives are to minimize risk, maintain liquidity and maximize after-tax yields.  To attain these objectives, investment limits are placed on the amount, type and issuer of securities.  Investments are principally in U.S. Treasury market funds.

Our long-term capital policy is to maintain a strong balance sheet and financial flexibility; reinvest in our core strategies; invest in strategic opportunities that reinforce our core strategies and meet return requirements; and return surplus cash flow to shareholders in the form of dividends and share repurchases over the long term.  

Net cash provided by operating activities for the six months ended February 28, 2014, was $1.2 billion compared to $1.8 billion a year ago.  When compared to the prior year, cash from operating activities decreased primarily as a result of changes in working capital balances.  For the six months ended February 28, 2014, working capital used $541 million of cash as compared to the prior year, where working capital was flat.  The decrease in cash used for working capital was primarily attributable to inventory balances and timing of payments related to the AmerisourceBergen transition.  Cash provided by operations is the principal source of funds for expansion, acquisitions, remodeling programs, dividends to shareholders and stock repurchases.

Net cash used for investing activities was $1.2 billion for the six months ended February 28, 2014, consistent with a year ago. Additions to property and equipment were $591 million compared to $581 million last year.  During the first six months, we added a total of 167 locations (99 net) compared to 271 last year (152 net).  There were 19 owned locations added during the first six months and 65 under construction at February 28, 2014 versus 20 owned locations added and 41 under construction last year.

Business acquisitions this year were $297 million versus $552 million in the prior year.  Business acquisitions in the current year include the purchase of certain assets of regional drugstore chain Kerr Drug and its affiliates for $173 million, subject to adjustment in certain circumstances.  Business acquisitions in the comparable prior year period included the purchase of the regional drugstore chain USA Drug from Stephen L. LaFrance Holdings, Inc. and members of the LaFrance family for $416 million net of assumed cash, an 80% interest in Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Pharmacy, LLC for $29 million net of assumed cash, and selected other assets (primarily prescription files). In connection with our strategic relationship with AmerisourceBergen, we purchased AmerisourceBergen common stock in open market transactions totaling $430 million during the six month period ended February 28, 2014.

Capital expenditures for fiscal 2014 are expected to be approximately $1.4 billion, excluding business acquisitions, joint ventures and prescription file purchases, although the actual amount may vary depending upon a variety of factors, including, among other things, the timing of implementation of certain capital projects.  In addition, we continue to optimize and focus our resources in a manner to increase shareholder value.  In the second half of fiscal 2014, we expect to incur charges between $240 million and $280 million in costs related to the closure of 76 retail store locations, most of which relates to termination charges.  Including these store closures, we expect our net drugstore locations to increase by approximately 55 to 75 locations in fiscal 2014.

Net cash used by financing activities was $398 million compared to the prior year net cash provided by financing activities of $507 million.  We repurchased shares to support the needs of the employee stock plans totaling $205 million this year and $116 million last year. We had proceeds related to employee stock plans of $416 million during the first six months versus $170 million for the same period last year.  Cash dividends paid were $597 million during the first six months of fiscal 2014, versus $520 million for the same period a year ago.  Last year we received proceeds from a public offering of $4.0 billion of notes with varying interest rates (see Note 9).  The notes were used, in part, to repay the $3.0 billion 364-day bridge term loaned obtained in connection with the investment in Alliance Boots.

In connection with our capital policy, our Board of Directors has authorized share repurchase programs and set a long-term dividend payout ratio target between 30 and 35 percent of net earnings attributable to Walgreen Co.  Our Board of Directors authorized the 2012 stock repurchase program, which allows for the repurchase of up to $2.0 billion of the Company's common stock prior to its expiration on December 31, 2015.  We did not purchase any shares under the program in the first six months of fiscal 2014 or 2013.  

We determine the timing and amount of repurchases based on our assessment of various factors including prevailing market conditions, alternate uses of capital, liquidity, the economic environment and other factors.  We anticipate that the future share repurchase activity will not be significant due to the debt levels incurred for the investment in Alliance Boots and the expected repayment of near-term maturities.  The timing and amount of these purchases may change at any time and from time to time.  The Company has repurchased and may from time to time in the future repurchase shares on the open market through Rule 10b5-1 plans, which enable a company to repurchase shares at times when it otherwise might be precluded from doing so under insider trading laws.

We have periodically borrowed under our commercial paper program during the first six months of the current fiscal year, and may continue to borrow in future periods.  In connection with our commercial paper program, we maintain two unsecured backup syndicated lines of credit that total $1.35 billion.  The first $500 million facility expires on July 20, 2015, and allows for the issuance of up to $250 million in letters of credit.  The second $850 million facility expires on July 23, 2017, and allows for the issuance of up to $200 million in letters of credit.  The issuance of letters of credit under either of these facilities reduces available borrowings.  Our ability to access these facilities is subject to our compliance with the terms and conditions of the credit facility, including financial covenants.  The covenants require us to maintain certain financial ratios related to the proportion of consolidated debt to total capitalization and priority debt, along with limitations on the sale of assets and purchases of investments. At February 28, 2014, we were in compliance with all such covenants.  The Company pays a facility fee to the financing banks to keep these lines of credit active.  At February 28, 2014, there were no letters of credit issued against these facilities.

As of March 27, 2014, our credit ratings were:

In assessing our credit strength, both Moody's and Standard & Poor's consider our business model, capital structure, financial policies and financial performance as well as the financial performance and level of outstanding debt of Alliance Boots.  Our credit ratings impact our borrowing costs, access to capital markets and operating lease costs.  The rating agency ratings are not recommendations to buy, sell or hold our debt securities or commercial paper.  Each rating may be subject to revision or withdrawal at any time by the assigning rating organization and should be evaluated independently of any other rating.

Pursuant to our Purchase and Option Agreement with Alliance Boots, we have the right, but not the obligation, to purchase the remaining 55% interest in Alliance Boots during the period beginning February 2, 2015 and ending August 2, 2015.  If we exercise this call option, we would, subject to the terms and conditions of such agreement, be obligated to make a cash payment of £3.133 billion (equivalent to approximately $5.2 billion based on exchange rates as of February 28, 2014) and issue approximately 144.3 million shares of our common stock, with the amount and form of such consideration being subject to adjustment in certain circumstances including if the volume weighted average price of our common stock is below $31.18 per share during a period shortly before the closing of the second step transaction.  We also would assume the then-outstanding debt of Alliance Boots upon the closing of the second step transaction.

Pursuant to our arrangements with AmerisourceBergen and Alliance Boots, we and Alliance Boots have the right, but not the obligation, to purchase a minority equity position in AmerisourceBergen over time pursuant to open market purchases and warrants to acquire AmerisourceBergen common stock.  WAB Holdings, LLC, a newly-formed entity jointly owned by Walgreens and Alliance Boots, which is consolidated by Walgreens, can acquire up to 19,859,795 shares which represents approximately 7% of the outstanding AmerisourceBergen common stock on a fully-diluted basis, assuming exercise in full of the warrants.  The amount of permitted open market purchases is subject to increase in certain circumstances.  We have purchased a total of approximately 10.5 million AmerisourceBergen shares in the open market, including 6.5 million shares with a cost basis of $430 million in the six month period ended February 28, 2014.  We have funded and plan to continue funding these purchases over time through cash contributions to WAB Holdings.  Share purchases may be made from time to time in open market transactions or pursuant to instruments and plans complying with Rule 10b5-1.

If we elect to exercise the two warrants issued by AmerisourceBergen in full, Walgreens would, subject to the terms and conditions of such warrants, be required to make a cash payment of approximately $584.4 million in connection with the exercise of the first warrant during a six-month period beginning in March 2016 and $595.8 million in connection with the exercise of the second warrant during a six-month period beginning in March 2017.  Similarly, if Alliance Boots elects to exercise the two warrants issued by AmerisourceBergen in full, Alliance Boots would, subject to the terms and conditions of such warrants, be required to pay AmerisourceBergen similar amounts upon the exercise of their warrants in 2016 and 2017.  If Walgreens elects to exercise its option to purchase the remaining 55% interest in Alliance Boots, Walgreens would acquire the warrants held by Alliance Boots and be required to make cash payments of approximately $1.2 billion in order to exercise each tranche of warrants.  Our and Alliance Boots ability to invest in equity in AmerisourceBergen above certain thresholds is subject to the receipt of regulatory approvals.

OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

We do not have any unconsolidated special purpose entities and, except as described herein, we do not have significant exposure to any off – balance sheet arrangements. The term "off – balance sheet arrangement" generally means any transaction, agreement or other contractual arrangement to which an entity unconsolidated with us is a party, under which we have: (i) any obligation arising under a guarantee contract, derivative instrument or variable interest; or (ii) a retained or contingent interest in assets transferred to such entity or similar arrangement that serves as credit, liquidity or market risk support for such assets.

Letters of credit are issued to support purchase obligations and commitments (as reflected on the Contractual Obligations and Commitments table) as follows (in millions):

We have no off – balance sheet arrangements other than those disclosed on the Contractual Obligations and Commitments table.  Both on – balance sheet and off – balance sheet financing alternatives are considered when pursuing our capital structure and capital allocation objectives.

CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS AND COMMITMENTS

The following table lists our contractual obligations and commitments as of February 28, 2014:

* Recorded on balance sheet.

The obligations and commitments included in the table above do not include unconsolidated partially owned entities, such as Alliance Boots GmbH, of which we own 45% of the outstanding share capital.  The expected timing of payments of the obligations above is estimated based on current information. Timing of payments and actual amounts paid may be different, depending on the time of receipt of goods or services, or changes to agreed-upon amounts for some obligations.

In connection with the Alliance Boots Purchase and Option Agreement dated June 18, 2012, we have the right, but not the obligation, to purchase the remaining 55% interest in Alliance Boots GmbH at any time during the period beginning February 2, 2015, and ending August 2, 2015.  If we exercise this call option, we would, subject to the terms and conditions of such agreement, be obligated to make a cash payment of £3.133 billion (equivalent to approximately $5.2 billion based on exchange rates as of February 28, 2014) and issue approximately 144.3 million shares of our common stock, with the amount and form of such consideration being subject to adjustment in certain circumstances including if the volume weighted average price of our common stock is below $31.18 per share during a period shortly before the closing of the second step transaction.  We also would assume the then-outstanding debt of Alliance Boots GmbH upon the closing of the second step transaction.  In the event that we do not exercise the option, or we exercise the call option but the second step transaction does not close, under certain circumstances, our ownership of Alliance Boots GmbH will reduce from 45% to 42% in exchange for nominal consideration to Walgreens.

In addition, pursuant to our arrangements with AmerisourceBergen and Alliance Boots, we and Alliance Boots have the right, but not the obligation, to purchase a minority equity position in AmerisourceBergen over time, including pursuant to open market purchases and warrants to acquire AmerisourceBergen common stock.   If we elect to exercise the two warrants issued by AmerisourceBergen in full, Walgreens would, subject to the terms and conditions of such warrants, be required to make a cash payment of approximately $584.4 million in connection with the exercise of the first warrant during a six-month period beginning in March 2016 and $595.8 million in connection with the exercise of the second warrant during a six-month period beginning in March 2017.  Similarly, if Alliance Boots elects to exercise the two warrants issued by AmerisourceBergen in full, Alliance Boots would, subject to the terms and conditions of such warrants, be required to pay AmerisourceBergen similar amounts upon the exercise of their warrants in 2016 and 2017.  If Walgreens elects to exercise its option to purchase the remaining 55% interest in Alliance Boots, Walgreens would acquire the warrants held by Alliance Boots and be required to make cash payments of approximately $1.2 billion in order to exercise each tranche of warrants.  Our and Alliance Boots ability to invest in equity in AmerisourceBergen above certain thresholds is subject to the receipt of regulatory approvals.  See "Liquidity and Capital Resources" above.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America and include amounts based on management's prudent judgments and estimates.  Actual results may differ from these estimates.  Management believes that any reasonable deviation from those judgments and estimates would not have a material impact on our consolidated financial position or results of operations.  To the extent that the estimates used differ from actual results, however, adjustments to the statement of earnings and corresponding balance sheet accounts would be necessary.  These adjustments would be made in future statements.  For a discussion of the Company's significant accounting policies, please see our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2013.  Some of the more significant estimates include goodwill and other intangible asset impairment, allowance for doubtful accounts, vendor allowances, asset impairments, liability for closed locations, liability for insurance claims, cost of sales and income taxes.  We use the following methods to determine our estimates:

RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

In May 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) reissued an exposure draft on lease accounting that would require entities to recognize assets and liabilities arising from lease contracts on the balance sheet.  The proposed exposure draft states that lessees and lessors should apply a "right-of-use model" in accounting for all leases.  Under the proposed model, lessees would recognize an asset for the right to use the leased asset, and a liability for the obligation to make rental payments over the lease term.  When measuring the asset and liability, variable lease payments are excluded whereas renewal options that provide a significant economic incentive upon renewal would be included.  The accounting by a lessor would reflect its retained exposure to the risks or benefits of the underlying leased asset.  A lessor would recognize an asset representing its right to receive lease payments based on the expected term of the lease.  The lease expense from real estate based leases would continue to be recorded under a straight line approach, but other leases not related to real estate would be expensed using an effective interest method that would accelerate lease expense.  A final standard is currently expected to be issued in 2014 and would be effective no earlier than annual reporting periods beginning on January 1, 2017 (fiscal 2018 for the Company).  The proposed standard, as currently drafted, would have a material impact on the Company's financial position and the impact on the Company's reported results of operations is being evaluated.  The impact of this exposure draft is non-cash in nature and would not affect the Company's cash position.

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This report and other documents that we file or furnish with the Securities and Exchange Commission contain forward-looking statements that are based on current expectations, estimates, forecasts and projections about our future performance, our business, our beliefs and our management's assumptions. In addition, we, or others on our behalf, may make forward-looking statements in press releases or written statements, on the Company's website or in our communications and discussions with investors and analysts in the normal course of business through meetings, webcasts, phone calls, conference calls and other communications.  Some of such forward-looking statements may be based on certain data and forecasts relating to our business and industry that we have obtained from internal surveys, market research, publicly available information and industry publications.  Industry publications, surveys and market research generally state that the information they provide has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but that the accuracy and completeness of such information is not guaranteed.  Statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements regarding our future financial and operating performance, as well as forward-looking statements concerning planned store closings in connection with our store optimization plan and the effects thereof, our investment in Alliance Boots GmbH and the other arrangements and transactions contemplated by the Purchase and Option Agreement and other agreements relating to our strategic partnership with Alliance Boots and their possible effects, our commercial agreement with AmerisourceBergen, the arrangements and transactions contemplated by our framework agreement with AmerisourceBergen and Alliance Boots and their possible effects, estimates of the impact of developments on our earnings, earnings per share and other financial and operating metrics, cough/cold and flu season, prescription volume, pharmacy sales trends, prescription margins, number and location of new store openings, network participation, vendor, payer and customer relationships and terms, possible new contracts or contract extensions, competition, economic and business conditions, outcomes of litigation and regulatory matters, the level of capital expenditures, industry trends, demographic trends, growth strategies, financial results, cost reduction initiatives, acquisition and joint venture synergies, competitive strengths and changes in legislation or regulations. Words such as "expect," "likely," "outlook," "forecast," "would," "could," "should," "can," "will," "project," "intend," "plan," "goal," "target," "continue," "sustain," "synergy," "on track," "believe," "seek," "estimate," "anticipate," "may," "possible," "assume," variations of such words and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements, which are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause actual results to vary materially from those indicated, including, but not limited to, those relating to whether the costs associated with our store optimization plan will exceed current forecasts, our ability to realize expected savings and benefits in the amounts and at the times anticipated, the Purchase and Option Agreement and other agreements relating to our strategic partnership with Alliance Boots, the arrangements and transactions contemplated thereby and their possible effects, our commercial agreement with AmerisourceBergen, the arrangements and transactions contemplated by our framework agreement with AmerisourceBergen and Alliance Boots and their possible effects, the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstance that could give rise to the termination, cross-termination or modification of any of the transaction documents, the parties' ability to realize anticipated synergies and achieve anticipated financial and operating results, the amount of costs, fees, expenses and charges incurred in connection with strategic transactions, the risks associated with transitions in supply arrangements, the risks associated with international business operations, the risks associated with governance and control matters in minority investments, whether the option to acquire the remainder of the Alliance Boots equity interest will be exercised and the financial and operational ramifications thereof, the risks associated with equity investments in AmerisourceBergen including whether the warrants to invest in AmerisourceBergen will be exercised and the ramifications thereof, changes in vendor, payer and customer relationships and terms, changes in network participation, the implementation, operation and growth of our customer loyalty program, changes in economic and business conditions generally or in the markets in which we or Alliance Boots participate, competition, risks associated with new business areas and activities, risks associated with acquisitions, joint ventures, strategic investments  and divestitures, the ability to realize anticipated results from capital expenditures and cost reduction initiatives, outcomes of legal and regulatory matters, and changes in legislation or regulations or interpretations thereof, and those described in Item 1A (Risk Factors) in our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2013, and in other reports that we file or furnish with the Securities and Exchange Commission.  Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those indicated or anticipated by such forward-looking statements. Accordingly, you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they are made. Except to the extent required by law, we do not undertake, and expressly disclaim, any duty or obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statement after the date the statement is made, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions or otherwise.

Item 3.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk

We are exposed to interest rate volatility with regard to future issuances of fixed-rate debt, and existing and future issuances of floating-rate debt.  Primary exposures include U.S. Treasury rates, LIBOR and commercial paper rates.  From time to time, we use interest rate swaps and forward-starting interest rate swaps to hedge our exposure to interest rate changes, to reduce the volatility of our financing costs, and to achieve a desired proportion of fixed versus floating-rate debt, based on current and projected market conditions.  Generally under these swaps, we agree with a counterparty to exchange the difference between fixed-rate and floating-rate interest rate amounts based on an agreed upon notional principal amount.  To manage our exposure to interest rate fluctuations between now and the date of an anticipated debt issuance, in March 2014 we entered into forward-starting interest rate swaps for a $500 million notional amount.

Information regarding our interest rate swap transactions is set forth in Note 10 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.  These financial instruments are sensitive to changes in interest rates.  On February 28, 2014, we had $1.0 billion in long-term debt obligations that had floating interest rates, all of which relates to fixed rate debt swapped to variable rate.  In addition, we had $550 million of short-term variable rate debt which was paid in full upon its March 13, 2014 maturity date.  A one percentage point increase or decrease in interest rates would increase or decrease the annual interest expense we recognize and the cash we pay for interest expense by approximately $16 million.

In connection with our Purchase and Option Agreement with Alliance Boots and the transactions contemplated thereby, our exposure to foreign currency risks, primarily with respect to the British pound Sterling, and to a lesser extent the Euro and certain other foreign currencies, is expected to increase.  We are exposed to the translation of foreign currency earnings to the U.S. dollar as a result of our 45% interest in Alliance Boots GmbH, which we account for using the equity method of accounting on a three month lag.  Foreign currency forward contracts and other derivative instruments may be used from time to time in some instances to hedge in full or in part certain risks relating to foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities, intercompany transactions, and in connection with acquisitions, joint ventures or investments outside the United States.  As of February 28, 2014 and February 28, 2013, we did not have any outstanding foreign exchange derivative instruments.

Changes in the AmerisourceBergen common stock price and equity volatility may have a significant impact on the value of the warrants to acquire AmerisourceBergen common stock described in Note 9 to our unaudited Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements.  As of  February 28, 2014, a one dollar change in AmerisourceBergen's common stock would, holding other factors constant, increase or decrease the fair value of the Company's warrants by $19 million and a one percent change in AmerisourceBergen's equity volatility would, holding other factors constant, increase or decrease the fair value of the Company's warrants by $5 million.  Additionally, the Company holds an investment in AmerisourceBergen common stock.  As of February 28, 2014, a one dollar change in AmerisourceBergen common stock would increase or decrease the fair value of the Company's investment by $11 million.

Item 4.   Controls and Procedures

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Management conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this Form 10-Q.  The controls evaluation was conducted under the supervision and with the participation of the Company's management, including its Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO).  Based upon the controls evaluation, our CEO and CFO have concluded that, as of the end of the period covered by this report, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed in our Exchange Act reports is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified by the SEC, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to management, including the CEO and CFO, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

In connection with the evaluation pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(d) of the Company's internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f)) by the Company's management, including its CEO and CFO, no changes during the quarter ended February 28, 2014 were identified that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company's internal control over financial reporting.

Inherent Limitations on Effectiveness of Controls

Our management, including the CEO and CFO, do not expect that our disclosure controls and procedures or our internal control over financial reporting will prevent or detect all errors and all fraud.  A control system, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the control system's objectives will be met.  The design of a control system must reflect the fact that there are resource constraints, and the benefits of controls must be considered relative to their costs.  Further, because of the inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that misstatements due to error or fraud will not occur or that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within the Company have been detected.  These inherent limitations include the realities that judgments in decision-making can be faulty and that breakdowns can occur because of simple error or mistake. Controls can also be circumvented by the individual acts of some persons, by collusion of two or more people, or by management override of the controls.  The design of any system of controls is based in part on certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events, and there can be no assurance that any design will succeed in achieving its stated goals under all potential future conditions.  Projections of any evaluation of controls effectiveness to future periods are subject to risks.  Over time, controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions or deterioration in the degree of compliance with policies or procedures.

Item 1.    Legal Proceedings

The information in response to this item is incorporated herein by reference to Note 11 of the Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements of this Quarterly Report.

Item 1A.   Risk Factors

In addition to the other information set forth in this report, you should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part I, Item 1A "Risk Factors" in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended August 31, 2013 which could materially affect our business, financial condition or future results.

Item 2.   Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds