UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

Form 10-Q

 

Quarterly report pursuant to Section 13 OR 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

 

For the quarter ended October 6, 2012 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 0-6966

 

ESCALADE, INCORPORATED

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Indiana

(State of incorporation)

13-2739290

(I.R.S. EIN)

 

817 Maxwell Ave, Evansville, Indiana

(Address of principal executive

office)

47711

(Zip Code)

  

812-467-4449

(Registrant's Telephone Number)

 

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

Yes x No ¨

 

Indicate 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 x No ¨

 

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 the definitions of “accelerated filer”, “large accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

Large accelerated filer ¨   Accelerated filer ¨

Non-accelerated filer ¨

(do not check if a smaller

reporting company)

  Smaller reporting company x

 

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

Yes ¨ No x

 

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

 

Class Outstanding at November 5, 2012
Common, no par value 13,421,507

 

 
 

 

INDEX

 

    Page
No.
     
Part I. Financial Information:  
     
Item 1 - Financial Statements:  
     
  Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets as of October 6, 2012, December 31, 2011, and October 1, 2011  3

     
  Consolidated Condensed Statements of Operations for the Three Months and Nine Months Ended October 6, 2012 and October 1, 2011 4
     
 

Consolidated Condensed Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the Three Months and Nine Months Ended October 6, 2012 and October 1, 2011

4
     
  Consolidated Condensed Statements of Cash Flows for the Nine Months Ended October 6, 2012 and October 1, 2011 5
     
  Notes to Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements 6
     
Item 2 - Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 14
     
Item 3 - Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk 17
     
Item 4 - Controls and Procedures 18
     
Part II. Other Information  
     
Item 2 - Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds 19
     
Item 6 - Exhibits 20
     
  Signatures 20

 

2
 

 

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Item 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

ESCALADE, INCORPORATED AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS

(All amounts in thousands, except share information)

 

   October 6,
2012
   December 31,
2011
   October 1,
2011
 
   (Unaudited)   (Audited)   (Unaudited) 
ASSETS               
Current Assets:               
Cash and cash equivalents  $3,255   $3,821   $4,433 
Time deposits   1,200    950    1,200 
Receivables, less allowance of $979; $938; and $920; respectively   27,379    26,914    23,728 
Inventories   37,968    29,035    35,911 
Prepaid expenses   1,279    1,102    1,545 
Deferred income tax benefit   1,288    1,478    1,273 
Income tax receivable       846     
TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS   72,369    64,146    68,090 
                
Property, plant and equipment, net   12,095    11,915    13,879 
Intangible assets   12,175    14,064    14,560 
Goodwill   12,017    25,285    25,646 
Investments   15,505    14,397    12,911 
Other assets   26    308     
   $124,187   $130,115   $135,086 
                
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY               
Current Liabilities:               
Notes payable  $14,033   $14,947   $18,129 
Current portion of long-term debt   2,000    2,000    2,000 
Trade accounts payable   7,089    3,293    4,913 
Accrued liabilities   14,222    14,410    14,763 
Income tax payable   3,318        651 
TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES   40,662    34,650    40,456 
                
Other Liabilities:               
Long-term debt   3,500    5,000    5,500 
Deferred income tax liability   2,723    2,900    2,208 
TOTAL LIABILITIES   46,885    42,550    48,164 
                
Stockholders' Equity:               
Preferred stock:               
Authorized 1,000,000 shares; no par value, none issued               
Common stock:               
Authorized 30,000,000 shares; no par value, issued and outstanding – 13,413,094; 12,883,948; and 12,876,806; shares respectively   13,413    12,884    12,877 
Retained earnings   59,923    71,348    69,951 
Accumulated other comprehensive income   3,966    3,333    4,094 
    77,302    87,565    86,922 
   $124,187   $130,115   $135,086 

 

See notes to Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements.

 

3
 

 

ESCALADE, INCORPORATED AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (UNAUDITED)

(All amounts in thousands, except per share amounts)

 

   Three Months Ended   Nine Months Ended 
   October 6,
2012
   October 1,
2011
   October 6,
2012
   October 1,
2011
 
                 
Net sales  $34,206   $28,734   $106,800   $97,582 
                     
Costs, expenses and other income:                    
Cost of products sold   23,249    20,428    72,943    66,344 
Selling, general and administrative expenses   7,466    8,725    23,729    26,064 
Goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges   13,362        13,362     
Amortization   516    436    1,722    1,245 
Operating income (loss)   (10,387)   (855)   (4,956)   3,929 
                     
Interest expense, net   (144)   (117)   (490)   (529)
Other income   919    1,065    1,331    1,700 
Equity method investment impairment   (382)       (382)    
Income (loss) before income taxes   (9,994)   93    (4,497)   5,100 
                     
Provision for income taxes   1,509    473    4,343    2,792 
                     
Net income (loss)  $(11,503)  $(380)  $(8,840)  $2,308 
                     
Per share data:                    
Basic earnings(loss) per share  $(0.86)  $(0.03)  $(0.67)  $0.18 
                     
Diluted earnings(loss) per share  $(0.85)  $(0.03)  $(0.66)  $0.17 
                     
Dividends declared  $0.08   $0.25   $0.23   $0.25 

  

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (UNAUDITED)

 

   Three Months Ended   Nine Months Ended 
   October 6,
2012
   October 1,
2011
   October 6,
2012
   October 1,
2011
 
                 
Net income (loss)  $(11,503)  $(380)  $(8,840)  $2,308 
                     
Foreign currency translation adjustment   1,877    (2,053)   633    173 
                     
Comprehensive income (loss)  $(9,626)  $(2,433)  $(8,207)  $2,481 

 

See notes to Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements.

 

4
 

 

ESCALADE, INCORPORATED AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED)

(All amounts in thousands)

 

   Nine Months Ended 
   October 6,
2012
   October 1,
2011
 
         
Operating Activities:          
Net income (loss)  $(8,840)  $2,308 
Depreciation and amortization   3,380    5,652 
Goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges   13,362     
Equity method investment impairment charges   382     
Loss (gain) on disposal of property and equipment   18    (345)
Stock-based compensation   432    310 
Adjustments necessary to reconcile net income to net cash used by operating activities   (1,463)   (8,969)
Net cash provided (used)by operating activities   7,271    (1,044)
           
Investing Activities:          
Purchase of property and equipment   (1,831)   (1,404)
Purchase of short-term time deposits   (250)    
Proceeds from disposal of short-term time deposits       50 
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment   5    3,418 
Net cash provided (used) by investing activities   (2,076)   2,064 
           
Financing Activities:          
Dividends paid   (3,965)   (3,232)
Net increase (decrease) in notes payable   (1,027)   6,423 
Net increase in overdraft facility   113    653 
Principal payment on long-term debt   (1,500)   (2,000)
Proceeds from exercise of stock options   438    125 
Director stock compensation   150    209 
Net cash provided (used) by financing activities   (5,791)   2,178 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash   30    (301)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents   (566)   2,897 
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period   3,821    1,536 
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period  $3,255   $4,433 

 

See notes to Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements.

 

5
 

 

ESCALADE, INCORPORATED AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)

 

Note A – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

 

Presentation of Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements – The significant accounting policies followed by the Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries for interim financial reporting are consistent with the accounting policies followed for annual financial reporting. All adjustments that are of a normal recurring nature and are in the opinion of management necessary for a fair statement of the results for the periods reported have been included in the accompanying consolidated condensed financial statements. The consolidated condensed balance sheet of the Company as of December 31, 2011 has been derived from the audited consolidated balance sheet of the Company as of that date. Certain information and note disclosures normally included in the Company’s annual financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America have been condensed or omitted. These consolidated condensed financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in the Company’s Form 10-K annual report for 2011 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

Note B - Reclassifications

 

Certain reclassifications have been made to prior year financial statements to conform to the current year financial statement presentation. These reclassifications had no effect on net earnings.

 

Note C - Seasonal Aspects

 

The results of operations for the three and nine month periods ended October 6, 2012 and October 1, 2011 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year.

 

Note D - Inventories

 

In thousands  October 6,
2012
   December 31,
2011
   October 1,
2011
 
             
Raw materials  $8,949   $7,865   $10,277 
Work in progress   4,697    3,751    4,733 
Finished goods   24,322    17,419    20,901 
   $37,968   $29,035   $35,911 

 

Note E – Acquired Intangible Assets and Goodwill

 

All goodwill is allocated to the operating segments of the business. The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill were:

 

In thousands  Sporting
Goods
   Information
Security and
Print
Finishing
   Total 
             
Goodwill  $12,017   $13,380   $25,397 
Accumulated impairment losses            
Balance at December 26, 2010   12,017    13,380    25,397 
Foreign currency translation adjustment       249    249 
Balance at October 1, 2011   12,017    13,629    25,646 
 Foreign currency translation adjustment       (361)   (361)
Balance at December 31, 2011   12,017    13,268    25,285 
Impairment losses       (13,187)   (13,187)
Foreign currency translation adjustment       (81)   (81)
Balance at October 6, 2012   12,017        12,017 
                
Goodwill   12,017    13,187    25,204 
Accumulated impairment losses       (13,187)   (13,187)
 Balance at October 6, 2012  $12,017   $   $12,017 

 

6
 

 

The Company reviews goodwill for impairment annually and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value of goodwill may not be recoverable. The goodwill impairment test involves a two-step process. In the first step, the Company compares the fair value of each reporting unit to its carrying value. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying value, goodwill is not impaired and no further testing is required. If the fair value of the reporting unit is less than the carrying value, the Company must perform the second step of the impairment test to measure the amount of impairment loss. In the second step, the reporting unit’s fair value is allocated to all of the assets and liabilities of the reporting unit, including any unrecognized intangible assets, in a hypothetical analysis that calculates the implied fair value of goodwill in the same manner as if the reporting unit was being acquired in a business combination. If the implied fair value of the reporting unit’s goodwill is less than the carrying value, the difference is recorded as an impairment loss.

 

During the third quarter of fiscal 2012, the Company determined that sufficient indicators of potential impairment existed to require an interim goodwill impairment analysis for the Martin Yale Group reporting unit, which comprises the Information Security and Print Finishing operating segment. These indicators included lower than expected operating profits and cash flows for the first nine months of 2012, coupled with continued economic weakness in the European and Asian markets.

 

Based on this continuing trend, the earnings forecast for the next five years was revised resulting in a goodwill impairment loss of $13.2 million in the quarter. In addition, the Company recorded an intangible asset impairment for this segment related to other intangibles of $0.2 million. Refer to Note I for detailed discussion of the methodology used to estimate fair value of goodwill and intangible assets as of October 6, 2012.

 

The goodwill impairment loss reduces to zero the carrying value of goodwill recorded as part of various international acquisitions in the Information Security and Print Finishing segment for purchases from 2003 through 2008.

 

Note F – Equity Interest Investments

 

The Company has a 50% interest in a joint venture, Stiga Sports AB (Stiga). The joint venture is accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Stiga, located in Sweden, is a global sporting goods company producing table tennis equipment and game products. Financial information for Stiga reflected in the table below has been translated from local currency to U.S. dollars using exchange rates in effect at the respective period-end for balance sheet amounts, and using average exchange rates for statement of operations amounts. Certain differences exist between U.S. GAAP and local GAAP in Sweden, and the impact of these differences is not reflected in the summarized information reflected in the table below. The most significant difference relates to the accounting for goodwill for Stiga which is amortized over eight years in Sweden but is not amortized for U.S. GAAP reporting purposes. The effect on Stiga’s net assets resulting from the amortization of goodwill for the periods ended October 6, 2012 and October 1, 2011 are addbacks to Stiga’s consolidated financial information of $10.9 million and $8.9 million, respectively. These net differences are comprised of cumulative goodwill adjustments of $15.2 million offset by the related cumulative tax effect of $4.3 million as of October 6, 2012 and cumulative goodwill adjustments of $12.4 million offset by the related cumulative tax effect of $3.5 million as of October 1, 2011. The statement of operations impact of these goodwill and tax adjustments and other individually insignificant U.S. GAAP adjustments for the periods ended October 6, 2012, and October 1, 2011 are to increase Stiga’s net income by approximately $1.3 million and $0.9 million, respectively. The Company’s 50% portion of net income for Stiga for the periods ended October 6, 2012 and October 1, 2011 was $1.4 million and $1.6 million, respectively, and is included in other income on the Company’s statements of operations.

 

7
 

 

In addition, Escalade has a 50% interest in two joint ventures, Escalade International, Ltd. in the United Kingdom, and Neoteric Industries Inc. in Taiwan. Escalade International Ltd. is a sporting goods wholesaler, specializing in fitness equipment. The Company’s 50% portion of net income (loss) for Escalade International for the periods ended October 6, 2012 and October 1, 2011 was ($137) thousand and $58 thousand respectively, and is included in other income on the Company’s statements of operations. The income and assets of Neoteric have no impact on the Company’s financial reporting. Additional information regarding these entities is considered immaterial and has not been included in the totals listed below.

 

During 2012, Escalade International, Ltd. has performed below expectations, and this entity has encountered unexpected attrition of certain significant customers as of the end of the third quarter 2012. Due to these events, the Company evaluated the economic and strategic benefits of continuing to hold this investment. Subsequent to the balance sheet date, the Company is negotiating to sell its investment in this entity for an amount less than book value which resulted in impairment in this equity method investment. Based on the review as of October 6, 2012, the Company determined that the fair value of this investment was less than its carrying value and that this impairment was other than temporary. As a result, the Company recognized other than temporary impairment of $0.4 million ($0.2 million, net of taxes). Refer to Note I for detailed discussion of the methodology used to estimate fair value of this equity method investment as of October 6, 2012.

 

Summarized financial information for Stiga Sports AB balance sheets as of October 6, 2012, December 31, 2011, and October 1, 2011 and statements of operations for the periods ended October 6, 2012 and October 1, 2011 is as follows:

  

In thousands  October 6,
2012
   December 31,
2011
   October 1,
2011
 
             
Current assets  $24,086   $23,451   $22,337 
Non-current assets   8,419    9,460    10,108 
Total assets   32,505    32,911    32,445 
                
Current liabilities   9,389    10,033    11,243 
Non-current liabilities   5,105    6,334    7,463 
Total liabilities   14,494    16,367    18,706 
                
Net assets  $18,011   $16,544   $13,739 

 

8
 

 

   Three Months Ended   Nine Months Ended 
   October 6,
2012
   October 1,
2011
   October 6,
2012
   October 1,
2011
 
                 
Net sales  $11,148   $12,169   $23,923   $25,787 
Gross profit   5,800    6,086    12,212    13,660 
Net income   1,829    2,227    1,609    2,272 

 

Note G – Notes Payable

 

On May 4, 2012, the Company entered into the Eighth Amendment to its Credit Agreement with its issuing bank, JP Morgan Chase Bank, N.A. (Chase). The Eighth Amendment amends the Credit Agreement originally dated as of April 30, 2009. The Credit Agreement, as amended, makes available to the Company a senior revolving credit facility in the maximum principal amount of up to $22 million with a maturity date of July 31, 2013 and a term loan in the principal amount of $8.5 million with a maturity date of May 31, 2015. The term loan agreement requires the Company to make repayment of the principal balance in equal installments of $0.5 million per quarter beginning in September 2010. A portion of the credit facility not in excess of $5 million is available for the issuance of commercial or standby letters of credit to be issued by Chase. The Credit Agreement Amendment also provides a Euro 2.0 million (approximately $2.6 million) overdraft facility.

 

The Eighth Amendment modified the loan covenants relating to capital expenditures, stock repurchases, and issuance of common stock. Escalade now may incur capital expenditures of up to $7,500,000 for fiscal year 2012, and up to $4,000,000 for fiscal year 2013; repurchase shares of Escalade common stock for an aggregate amount of up to$1,000,000; and issue up to 2,500,000 shares of its common stock pursuant to the Escalade 2007 Incentive Plan, as amended at Escalade’s 2012 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to increase the total number of shares available for grant thereunder from 1,000,000 to 2,500,000 shares.

 

Note H – Income Taxes

 

The provision for income taxes was computed based on financial statement income. In accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 740, the Company has recorded the following changes in uncertain tax positions:

 

   Nine Months Ended 
In thousands  October 6,
2012
   October 1,
2011
 
Beginning Balance  $46   $220 
Additions for current year tax positions        
Additions for prior year tax positions        
Settlements        
Reductions settlements        
Reductions for prior year tax positions       (128)
Ending Balance  $46   $92 

 

Note I – Fair Values of Financial Instruments

 

The following methods were used to estimate the fair value of all financial instruments recognized in the accompanying balance sheets at amounts other than fair values.

 

9
 

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents and Time Deposits

 

Fair values of cash and cash equivalents and time deposits approximate cost due to the short period of time to maturity.

 

Notes Payable and Long-term Debt

 

Fair values of notes payable and long-term debt is estimated based on borrowing rates currently available to the Company for bank loans with similar terms and maturities and determined through the use of a discounted cash flow model.

 

The following table presents estimated fair values of the Company’s financial instruments and the level within the fair value hierarchy in which the fair value measurements fall in accordance with FASB ASC 825 at October 6, 2012 and October 1, 2011.

 

      

Fair Value Measurements Using 

 
October 6, 2012
In thousands
  Fair Value   Quoted
Prices in
Active
Markets for
Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
   Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
   Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 
Financial assets                    
Cash and cash equivalents  $3,255   $3,255   $   $ 
Time deposits  $1,200   $1,200   $   $ 
                     
Financial liabilities                    
Note payable and Short-term debt  $14,033   $   $14,033   $ 
Current portion of Long-term debt  $2,000   $   $2,000   $ 
Long-term debt  $3,500   $   $3,500   $ 

 

      

 Fair Value Measurements Using 

 
October 1, 2011
In thousands
  Fair Value   Quoted
Prices in
Active
Markets for
Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
   Significant
Other Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
   Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 
Financial assets                    
Cash and cash equivalents  $4,433   $4,433   $   $ 
Time deposits  $1,200   $1,200   $   $ 
                     
Financial liabilities                    
Note payable and Short-term debt  $18,129   $   $18,129   $ 
Current portion of Long-term debt  $2,000   $   $2,000   $ 
Long-term debt  $5,500   $   $5,500   $ 

 

The outstanding balance of the euro overdraft facility is included in Notes payable and Short-term debt. For the periods ended October 6, 2012, December 31, 2011, and October 1, 2011, the balance of the euro overdraft facility was $2.4 million, $2.2 million, and $2.3 million, respectively.

 

10
 

 

Following is a description of the valuation methodologies and inputs used for assets measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis and recognized in the accompanying balance sheet, as well as the general classification of such assets pursuant to the valuation hierarchy.

 

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

 

For purposes of the interim impairment test, the fair value of the Martin Yale Group reporting unit was determined using a combination of two methods; one based on market earnings multiples of peer companies identified for the business unit (the market approach), and a discounted cash flow model with estimates of cash flows based on internal forecasts of revenues and expenses over a five year period plus a terminal value period (the income approach). The market approach estimates fair value by applying earnings and revenue market multiples to the reporting unit’s operating performance for the trailing twelve-month period. The market multiples are derived from comparable publicly traded companies with operating and investment characteristics similar to those of the Martin Yale Group reporting unit. The income approach estimates fair value by discounting the reporting unit’s estimated future cash flows using a weighted-average cost of capital that reflects current market conditions and the risk profile of the business unit.

 

To arrive at the Martin Yale Group reporting unit’s future cash flows, the Company uses estimates of economic and market information, including growth rates in revenues, costs, and estimates of future expected changes in operating margins, tax rates, and cash expenditures. Other significant estimates and assumptions include terminal value growth rates, future estimates of capital expenditures, and changes in future working capital requirements. Under the income approach, the Company applied a risk-adjusted discount rate of 11.2% to the future cash flows from the Martin Yale Group reporting unit. In addition to the earnings multiples and the discount rates disclosed above, certain other judgments and estimates are used to prepare the goodwill impairment test.

 

The fair values of the intangible assets for the Martin Yale Group reporting unit were estimated considering estimated royalty savings, discounted cash flows and average attrition rates associated with these assets.

 

As a result of the impairment tests performed, the goodwill of the Martin Yale Group reporting unit was written down to the implied fair value of zero from its carrying value of $13.2 million as of October 6, 2012. The intangible assets of this reporting unit were written down to their estimated fair value of $1.7 million from their carrying value of $1.9 million as of October 6, 2012.

 

Because of the significance of the unobservable inputs and management judgment used in the goodwill and intangible asset impairment analyses, these measurements were classified in level three of the valuation hierarchy.

 

Equity Method Investments

 

For purposes of the impairment analysis of the equity method investment in Escalade International, Ltd, the Company considered the impact of attrition of certain significant customers on future cash flows of this entity as well as expectations regarding future divestiture of the investment. The Company is negotiating to sell its investment to the remaining shareholders of Escalade International, Ltd. Based on consideration of cash flows related to the potential divestiture, the Company has determined that other than temporary impairment in the amount of $0.4 million ($0.2 million, net of tax) is appropriate. Consequently, the investment was written down to its estimated fair value of $0.5 million from its carrying value of $0.9 million as of October 6, 2012. Because of the significance of the unobservable inputs and management judgment used in the equity method impairment analysis, this measurement was classified in level three of the valuation hierarchy.

 

11
 

 

Note J – Stock Compensation

 

The fair value of stock-based compensation is recognized in accordance with the provisions of FASB ASC 718, Stock Compensation.

 

During the nine months ended October 6, 2012 and pursuant to the 2007 Incentive Plan, in lieu of director fees, the Company awarded to certain directors 27,646 shares of common stock. In addition, the Company awarded 37,500 stock options to directors and 200,000 stock options to employees. The stock options awarded to directors vest at the end of one year and have an exercise price equal to the market price on the date of grant. Director stock options are subject to forfeiture, except for termination of services as a result of retirement, death or disability, if on the vesting date the director no longer holds a position with the Company. The 2012 stock options awarded to employees have a graded vesting of 25% per year over four years and are subject to forfeiture if on the vesting date the employee is no longer employed. The 2012 employee awards were conditioned upon stockholder approval of an amendment to the Escalade, Incorporated 2007 Incentive Plan and bank approval. The Plan amendment was voted upon and approved at the April 2012 Shareholder Meeting, and bank approval was obtained as part of the Eighth Amendment to the Credit Agreement. The Company utilizes the Black-Scholes option pricing model to determine the fair value of stock options granted.

 

For the three months and nine months ended October 6, 2012, the Company recognized stock based compensation expense of $176 thousand and $582 thousand, respectively, compared to stock based compensation expense of $163 thousand and $519 thousand for the same periods last year. At October 6, 2012 and October 1, 2011, respectively, there was $1.1 million and $1.0 million in unrecognized stock-based compensation expense related to non-vested stock awards.

 

Note K - Segment Information

 

   For the Three Months
Ended October 6, 2012
 
In thousands  Sporting
Goods
   Information
Security
and Print
Finishing
   Corp.   Total 
                 
Revenues from external customers  $25,636   $8,570   $   $34,206 
Operating income (loss)   3,640    (13,378)   (649)   (10,387)
Net income (loss)   2,178    (13,830)   149    (11,503)

 

   As of and for the Nine Months
Ended October 6, 2012
 
In thousands  Sporting
Goods
   Information
Security
and Print
Finishing
   Corp.   Total 
                 
Revenues from external customers  $79,282   $27,518   $   $106,800 
Operating income (loss)   11,088    (13,885)   (2,159)   (4,956)
Net income (loss)   6,600    (14,938)   (502)   (8,840)
Total assets  $77,903   $26,882   $19,402   $124,187 

 

12
 

 

   For the Three Months
Ended October 1, 2011
 
In thousands  Sporting Goods   Information
Security
and Print
Finishing
   Corp.   Total 
                 
Revenues from external customers  $20,180   $8,554   $   $28,734 
Operating income (loss)   2,164    (40)   (2,979)   (855)
Net income (loss)   1,010    (207)   (1,183)   (380)

 

   As of and for the Nine Months
Ended October 1, 2011
 
In thousands  Sporting Goods   Information
Security
and Print
Finishing
   Corp.   Total 
                 
Revenues from external customers  $69,110   $28,472   $   $97,582 
Operating income (loss)   8,487    228    (4,786)   3,929 
Net income (loss)   4,612    (580)   (1,724)   2,308 
Total assets  $74,065   $41,923   $19,098   $135,086 

 

Note L – Dividend Payment

 

On January 5, 2012, the Company paid a dividend of $0.07 per common share to all shareholders of record on December 22, 2011. The total amount of the dividend was approximately $906 thousand and was charged against retained earnings.

 

On April 16, 2012, the Company paid a dividend of $0.07 per common share to all shareholders of record on April 6, 2012. The total amount of this dividend payment was approximately $926 thousand and was charged against retained earnings.

 

On July 9, 2012, the Company paid a dividend of $0.08 per common share to all shareholders of record on July 2, 2012. The total amount of this dividend payment was approximately $1.1 million and was charged against retained earnings.

 

On October 5, 2012, the Company paid a dividend of $0.08 per common share to all shareholders of record on October 1, 2012. The total amount of this dividend payment was approximately $1.1 million and was charged against retained earnings.

 

Note M - Earnings Per Share

 

The shares used in computation of the Company’s basic and diluted earnings per common share are as follows:

 

   Three Months Ended   Nine Months Ended 
All amounts in thousands  October
6, 2012
   October
1, 2011
   October
6, 2012
   October
1, 2011
 
                 
Weighted average common shares outstanding   13,391    12,871    13,189    12,838 
Dilutive effect of stock options and restricted stock units   165    543    163    565 
Weighted average common shares outstanding, assuming dilution   13,556    13,414    13,352    13,403 

 

13
 

 

Stock options that are anti-dilutive as to earnings per share and unvested restricted stock units which have a market condition for vesting that has not been achieved are ignored in the computation of dilutive earnings per share. The number of stock options and restricted stock units that were excluded in 2012 and 2011 were 454,500 and 247,024, respectively.

 

Note N – New Accounting Standards

 

With the exception of that discussed below, there have been no recent accounting pronouncements or changes in accounting pronouncements during the nine months ended October 6, 2012, as compared to the recent accounting pronouncements described in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2011, that are of significance, or potential significance to the Company.

 

In July 2012, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2012-02, Intangibles – Goodwill and Other, to reduce the cost and complexity of performing impairment testing for indefinite-lived intangible assets by simplifying how an entity tests those assets for impairment and improving the consistency in impairment testing guidance among long-lived asset categories. An organization electing to perform a qualitative assessment is no longer required to calculate the fair value of an indefinite-lived intangible asset unless the organization determines, based on a qualitative assessment, that it is “more likely than not” that the asset is impaired. The guidance is effective for impairment testing for fiscal years beginning after September 15, 2012. The adoption of this standard is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

Note O – Commitments and Contingencies

 

The Company is involved in litigation arising in the normal course of business. The Company does not believe that the disposition or ultimate resolution of existing claims or lawsuits will have a material adverse effect on the business or financial condition of the Company.

 

Note P – Subsequent Event

 

On November 9, 2012, the Board of Directors declared a dividend of $0.08 per share to shareholders of record on December 13, 2012, payable on December 20, 2012.

 

Item 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

Forward-Looking Statements

 

This report contains forward-looking statements relating to present or future trends or factors that are subject to risks and uncertainties. These risks include, but are not limited to, the impact of competitive products and pricing, product demand and market acceptance, Escalade’s ability to successfully integrate the operations of acquired assets and businesses, new product development, the continuation and development of key customer and supplier relationships, Escalade’s ability to control costs, general economic conditions, fluctuation in operating results, changes in foreign currency exchange rates, changes in the securities market, Escalade’s ability to obtain financing and to maintain compliance with the terms of such financing, and other risks detailed from time to time in Escalade’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Escalade’s future financial performance could differ materially from the expectations of Management contained herein. Escalade undertakes no obligation to release revisions to these forward-looking statements after the date of this report.

 

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Overview

 

Escalade, Incorporated (“Escalade” or “Company”) manufactures and distributes products for two industries: Sporting Goods and Information Security and Print Finishing. Within these industries the Company has successfully built a market presence in niche markets. This strategy is heavily dependent on expanding the customer base, barriers to entry, brand recognition and excellent customer service. A key strategic advantage is the Company’s established relationships with major customers that allow the Company to bring new products to the market in a cost effective manner while maintaining a diversified product line and wide customer base. In addition to strategic customer relations, the Company has substantial manufacturing and import experience that enable it to be a low cost supplier.

 

A majority of the Company’s products are in markets that are experiencing low growth rates. Where the Company enjoys a commanding market position, such as table tennis tables in the Sporting Goods segment and paper folding machines in the Information Security and Print Finishing segment, revenue growth is expected to be roughly equal to general growth/decline in the economy. However, in markets that are fragmented and where the Company is not the dominant leader, such as archery in the Sporting Goods segment, the Company anticipates growth. To enhance growth, the Company has a strategy of promoting new product innovation and development and brand marketing.

 

In the Information Security and Print Finishing segment, the Company’s strategic focus is increasingly upon expanding its product and service offerings to assist businesses and governments with their document and information high security needs to secure sensitive customer, employee and business information and to comply with new information privacy laws, rules and regulations. The Company continues to extend the capabilities of its line of shredders to include not only the secure destruction of paper but also the secure destruction and/or de-commissioning of solid state and other media. The Company is further exploring opportunities to provide secure on-site and off-site document and data destruction and disposal services to meet the specific needs of its customers.

 

In addition, the Company will continue to investigate acquisition opportunities of companies or product lines that complement or expand the Company’s existing product lines. A key objective is the acquisition of product lines with barriers to entry that the Company can take to market through its established distribution channels or through new market channels. Significant synergies are achieved through assimilation of acquired product lines into the existing company structure. As part of its ongoing strategy development, the Company also routinely assesses product line profitability and category alignment. Management believes that key indicators in measuring the success of this strategy are revenue growth, earnings growth and the expansion of channels of distribution.

 

In 2012, Escalade's Board of Directors adopted a dividend policy under which the Company intends to pay quarterly cash dividends on its common stock. Escalade expects the initial annual rate to be $0.32 per share per year, or $0.08 per share quarterly. Escalade's Board of Directors will evaluate the Company's dividend policy on an ongoing basis after giving consideration to, among other things, the financial condition of and outlook for the Company and any particular cash flow and financing needs of the Company.

 

Results of Operations

 

Consolidated net sales for the third quarter of 2012 were 19% higher compared to the same quarter last year. For the first nine months of 2012, net sales have increased 9% over the same period prior year. Increases in sales are driven by the Sporting Goods business segment.

 

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In the third quarter of 2012, the Company recorded a goodwill impairment loss on its Information Security and Print Finishing segment. Because of increased competition and continuing economic weakness in the European and Asian markets, operating profits and cash flows for this operating segment were lower than expected in the first nine months of 2012. Based on this continuing trend, the earnings forecast for the next five years was revised resulting in a goodwill impairment loss of $13.2 million. In addition, the Company recorded intangible asset impairment for this segment related to other intangibles of $0.2 million.

 

In the third quarter of 2011, the Company recorded accelerated depreciation expense related to the anticipated replacement of its Oracle ERP system which reduced operating income by $2.2 million for the quarter and year to date.

 

The Company’s operating loss for the three and nine months ending October 6, 2012 was $(10.4) million and $(5.0) million, respectively, compared to operating income (loss) of $(0.9) million and $3.9 million for the same periods last year. Without the impact of goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges in 2012, operating income for the three and nine months of fiscal 2012 would have been $3.0 million and $8.4 million, respectively. Without the impact of accelerated depreciation in 2011, operating income for the three and nine months of fiscal 2011 would have been $1.4 million and $6.1 million, respectively.

 

The following schedule sets forth certain consolidated statement of operations data as a percentage of net revenue:

 

   Three Months Ended   Nine Months Ended 
   October
6, 2012
   October
1, 2011
   October
6, 2012
   October
1, 2011
 
Net revenue   100.0%   100.0%   100.0%   100.0%
Cost of products sold   68.0%   71.1%   68.3%   68.0%
Gross margin   32.0%   28.9%   31.7%   32.0%
Selling, administrative and general expenses   21.8%   30.4%   22.2%   26.7%
Goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges   39.1%       12.5%    
Amortization   1.5%   1.5%   1.6%   1.3%
Operating income (loss)   (30.4)%   (3.0)%   (4.6)%   4.0%

 

Consolidated Revenue and Gross Margin

 

Revenues from the Sporting Goods business were up 27.0% for the quarter and 14.7% for the first nine months of 2012, compared to the same periods prior year. Growth for the quarter was exceptionally strong due to the timing of certain product placements. Management expects full year sales to remain at double digit growth, although fourth quarter growth is expected to be less than that attained in the third quarter.

 

Revenues from the Information Security and Print Finishing business held steady for the third quarter of 2012 compared to prior year, although for the year to date 2012 is down 3.4% from last year. Excluding the effects of changes in the currency exchange rates, revenues increased 4.0%for the third quarter and were flat for the first nine months of fiscal 2012, compared to the same periods prior year. The Company continues to experience challenges in the international market due to competitive pricing pressures, austerity measures taken in European and other governmental channels and the continued weakening of the European economy.

 

The overall gross margin ratios for the three and nine month periods in 2012 were32.0% and 31.7%, respectively, compared to 28.9% and 32.0%, respectively, for same periods last year. For the quarter, gross margin percentages in the Sporting Goods segment improved over prior year due mainly to product mix. Year to date 2012 gross margin percentages in the Information Security and Print Finishing segment were down 9% compared to prior year.

 

16
 

 

Consolidated Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

 

Compared to the same periods last year, consolidated selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) costs decreased as a percent of net sales to 21.8% and 22.2% for the three and nine months periods in 2012; down from 30.4% and 26.7% for the three and nine months periods in 2011. In the third quarter 2011, SG&A costs included $2.2 million in accelerated depreciation expense. Without the additional depreciation expense, SG&A for the third quarter of 2011 would have been 22.7% of net sales.

 

Provision for Income Taxes

 

For 2012, the annual effective tax rate, year to date, differs from the U.S. Federal statutory rate of 34% due to state taxes of approximately 6%, valuation allowances against losses in foreign jurisdictions in which the Information Security and Print Finishing segment operates of approximately 9.3% and reductions for permanent tax benefits of approximately 0.7% generated from captive insurance earnings netted with non-deductible expenses. In addition, the goodwill and intangible asset impairment charge of $13.4 million is a permanent non-deductible expense so no tax benefit was recorded. A tax benefit of $0.2 million was recorded in respect of the impairment on the equity method investment in Escalade International, Ltd. Quarterly fluctuations in the effective tax rate are generally driven by fluctuations in losses in foreign jurisdictions. Due to anticipated higher losses in 2012 compared with 2011 generated in foreign taxing jurisdictions which do not offset gain in other taxing jurisdictions or for which no tax benefit is expected to be realized, the Company expects the effective tax rate for 2012 to be higher than in 2011.

 

Financial Condition and Liquidity

 

Total bank debt at the end of the first three quarters of 2012 was down 23.8% or $6.1 million from the same period last year, and down 11% or $2.4 million from December 31, 2011. The decrease in debt over same period prior year is due mainly to strong 2012 profits in the Sporting Goods segment. Planned increases in inventory levels have been made to better meet customer demand. The following schedule summarizes the Company’s total bank debt:

 

 

In thousands  October 6,
2012
   December 31,
2011
   October 1,
2011
 
             
Notes payable short-term  $11,673   $12,700   $15,829 
Current portion long-term debt   2,000    2,000    2,000 
Bank overdraft facility   2,360    2,247    2,300 
Long term debt   3,500    5,000    5,500 
Total bank debt  $19,533   $21,947   $25,629 

 

As a percentage of stockholders’ equity, total bank debt was 25%, 25% and 30% at October 6, 2012, December 31, 2011, and October 1, 2011 respectively.

 

The Company funds working capital requirements through operating cash flows and revolving credit agreements with its bank. Based on working capital requirements, the Company expects to have access to adequate levels of revolving credit to meet growth needs.

 

17
 

 

Item 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

 

The Company is exposed to financial market risks, including changes in currency exchange rates and interest rates. The Company attempts to minimize these risks through regular operating and financing activities and, when considered appropriate, through the use of derivative financial instruments. During the quarter there were no derivatives in use. The Company does not purchase, hold or sell derivative financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes.

 

Interest Rates
The Company’s exposure to market-rate risk for changes in interest rates relates primarily to its revolving variable rate bank debt which is based on LIBOR interest rates and its overdraft facility which is based on EURIBOR interest rates. A hypothetical 1% or 100 basis point change in interest rates would not have a significant effect on our consolidated financial position or results of operations.

 

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate
The Company conducts business in various countries around the world and is therefore subject to risks associated with fluctuating foreign exchange rates. This revenue is generated from the operations of the Company’s subsidiaries in their respective countries and surrounding geographic areas and is primarily denominated in each subsidiary’s local functional currency. These subsidiaries incur most of their expenses (other than inter-company expenses) in their local functional currency and include the Euro, Great Britain Pound Sterling, Mexican Peso, Chinese Yuan, Swedish Krona and South African Rand.

 

The geographic areas outside the United States in which the Company operates are generally not considered by management to be highly inflationary. Nonetheless, the Company’s foreign operations are sensitive to fluctuations in currency exchange rates arising from, among other things, certain inter-company transactions that are denominated in currencies other than the respective functional currency. Operating results as well as assets and liabilities are also subject to the effect of foreign currency translation when the operating results, assets and liabilities of our foreign subsidiaries are translated into U.S. dollars in our consolidated financial statements.

 

The Company and its subsidiaries conduct substantially all their business in their respective functional currencies to avoid the effects of cross-border transactions. To protect against reductions in value and the volatility of future cash flows caused by changes in currency exchange rates, the Company carefully considers the use of transaction and balance sheet hedging programs such as matching assets and liabilities in the same currency. Such programs reduce, but do not entirely eliminate the impact of currency exchange rate changes. The Company has evaluated the use of currency exchange hedging financial instruments but has determined that it would not use such instruments under the current circumstances. Changes in currency exchange rates may be volatile and could affect the Company’s performance.

 

Item 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

Escalade maintains disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the Company’s Exchange Act reports is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to the Company’s management, including its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure based closely on the definition of “disclosure controls and procedures” in Rule 13a-14(c). In designing and evaluating the disclosure controls and procedures, Management recognized that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives, and Management necessarily was required to apply its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures. Also, the Company has investments in certain unconsolidated entities. As the Company does not control or manage these entities, its disclosure controls and procedures with respect to such entities are necessarily substantially more limited than those it maintains with respect to its consolidated subsidiaries.

 

18
 

 

The Company carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s management, including the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and the Company’s Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on the foregoing, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

Management of the Company has evaluated, with the participation of the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, changes in the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) of the Exchange Act) during the third quarter of 2012.

 

There have been no changes to the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred since the beginning of the Company’s third quarter of 2012 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

PART II.        OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1.      Not Required.

 

Item 1A.       Not Required.

 

Item 2.      UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

 

c) Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

 

 

Period  (a) Total
Number of
Shares (or
Units)
Purchased
   (b) Average
Price Paid
per Share
(or Unit)
   (c) Total
Number of
Shares (or
Units)
Purchased as
Part of
Publicly
Announced
Plans or
Programs
   (d) Maximum
Number (or
Approximate
Dollar
Value) of
Shares (or
Units) that
May Yet Be
Purchased
Under the
Plans or
Programs
Shares purchases prior to 7/14/2012 under the current repurchase program.   982,916   $8.84   982,916  $ 2,273,939
                   
 Third quarter purchases:                  
07/15/2012–08/11/2012   None    None   No Change    No Change
08/12/2012-09/8/2012   None    None   No Change    No Change
09/9/2012-10/6/2012   None     None   No Change    No Change
Total share purchases under the current program   982,916   $8.84   982,916  $ 2,273,939

 

19
 

 

The Company has one stock repurchase program which was established in February 2003 by the Board of Directors and which authorized management to expend up to $3,000,000 to repurchase shares on the open market as well as in private negotiated transactions. The repurchase plan has no termination date. There have been no share repurchases that were not part of a publicly announced program. In February 2008, the Board of Directors increased the remaining amount on this plan to its original level of $3,000,000. Although authorized by the Board, the Company has agreed to certain restrictions on the repurchase of shares as part of the April 30, 2009 Credit Agreement terms. The Eighth Amendment increased the limit on the share repurchases from $50,000 to $1,000,000.

 

Item 3.       Not Required.

 

Item 4.       Not Required.

 

Item 5.       Not Required.

 

Item 6.       Exhibits

 

(a)Exhibits

 

Number Description
   
31.1 Chief Executive Officer Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification.
   
31.2 Chief Financial Officer Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification.
   
32.1 Chief Executive Officer Section 1350 Certification.
   
32.2 Chief Financial Officer Section 1350 Certification.

 

SIGNATURE

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

  ESCALADE, INCORPORATED
   
Date: November 16, 2012 /s/ Deborah Meinert
  Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
  (On behalf of the registrant and in her
  capacities as Principal Financial Officer
  and Principal Accounting Officer)

 

20